Training a Stubborn Puppy: Patience, Creativity, and More Patience

Training a stubborn puppy is a challenge... made even harder by their undeniable good looks and cute puppy eyes! All puppies, however, should learn to the rules of the household as well as good doggy manners - and it's best to do so right from the beginning before they develop any hard-to-break bad habits. Here are a few suggestions on training a stubborn puppy:

Does your little ball of fluff refuse to walk on leash? Be positive and relaxed, first of all. Try carrying your pup a short distance from home and then leading him back on leash. If he still doesn't want to move, take him within sight of home - and have something he wants at home (another family member happily calling his name; another pet; a favorite toy; etc). Try to keep the leash loose while you walk.
Does your stubborn little guy only want to go to the bathroom in a certain spot? Perhaps some puppy training pads would help. These are specially scented, absorbent pads that encourage dogs to eliminate on them. You can use them both indoors and outdoors (but don't leave them outside! Just take them out, encourage your pup to use them, then discard full pads or bring unused pads inside for later use).
Does your puppy bite or nip you while trying to play? This behavior needs to be corrected, as it might be "cute" when a small puppy does it, but it's not so cute when puppy grows into a big dog!
If you've already tried the typical methods (yelping "No!" in a high-pitched voice, similar to the sound another puppy would make to indicate that the biting hurts; sharply saying "No!" in a deep, firm voice)... then again, sharply say, "No!" and accompany that with a sharp tap on the nose (not enough to hurt). Whenever he bites, repeat the same correction and in the same tone. Consistency and repetition (and lots of patience!) will help your puppy to learn what type of behavior is appropriate or inappropriate.

Of course, these are just a few ways puppies can be stubborn! Remember to use positive reinforcement training whenever possible, and never physically punish your dog. This can lead to aggressive or fearful behaviors.

Consider taking your little one to puppy training classes. These fun classes are a great way to learn from the dog professionals. It gives your pup a chance to socialize with other dogs, learn good manners, and gives you the opportunity to learn and observe positive training methods that work with all sorts of canine personalities!

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