Stop Shoe Stealing and Similar Puppy Problems

Stop Sock Stealing and Similar Puppy Challenges

Ask anyone who has ever owned a puppy and they will definitely tell you that a puppy’s most enjoyable activities is naughtily snooping around the home and finding items to carry away, such as slippers, Barbies and more.

So, what’s a human to do? To let them do so would be dangerous for your dog, damaging to your items and certainly not conducive to teaching the dog not to do that anymore.

But the fun doesn’t stop there. Often, it develops into a game of "catch me if you can", in which the owners run around trying to get the item while the puppy {runs away to escape|runs around outsmarting them. Dining room tables are a favorite tool in the canine sleuth’s game, as they cut through under the chairs, making their humans literally run in circles after them.

In desperation, many humans try the dog treat, used to encourage the dog into dropping the item in favor of the snack. However this serves as a reward for stealing stuff and puppies quickly figure out that whenever they want an extra snack, they can simply steal something to end up getting one.

Whether you’re a first time pet owner, a professional dog trainer or anyone in-between, some of this is inevitable. After all, a puppy is a puppy.#randurls[4|1|,|Dogs]# Following is a 12 step program, created to aid puppies give up their life of theft:

1. Puppy proof- clean up so there’s less for your pet to steal.

2. Move calmly- If you chase your dog, you are in the game. Instead, walk calmly and use strong body language.

3. Do obedience- Basic commands, such as sit, down and fetch, help a lot to win your dog’s respect.
Say NO" - remember to use this phrase consistently, rather than just saying "Stop it,Get over here, etc."

5. Provide toys- In a variety of different textures. If he gets bored with them, rotate them once in a while. Keep some available and some in a cabinet to switch up.

6. Ensure the toys are nearby- If the toys are in the living room but your dog is gated into the kitchen, it’s no wonder he’s stealing the kitchen towel. Bring them into whichever area your pet is spending time in.

7. Correct and replace- When your dog steals something, command him "No", remove the item and replace with a dog toy. Praise lavishly when the toy is in its mouth "Good dog."

8. Set him up- With your dog on leash, lay out a variety of items such as shoes, kids toys, etc. When your dog looks like he’s planning on snatching something, say "No" leave it!with a tug of the leash. If he takes it, use the "No", replace with a dog toy, then praise.

9. Teach self-discipline- Exercise obedience commands, particularly the "down"|"stay" word with the temptations in easy reach. Praise your dog for coexisting with them but not grabbing them.

10. Do not use people items - Such as used socks, children’s stuffed animals, etc. To your dog, they smell like the humans’ stuff.

11. Exercise - A tired dog is a good dog. Be sure to give your pet plenty of exercise: physically, through walks and playing, and mentally through obedience training. This will help reduce the urge to create their own activities due to boredom.

12. Keep your sense of humor- Remember, a puppy is a puppy and their antics can either make you grin or make you cry.

Keywords: Chewing,Puppies,Dog Training Methods, stealing, chewing, Dog Manners,#randurls[4|1|,|Dogs]#

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