From chewing on your favorite pair of shoes to urinating on the living room rug, it’s safe to say that having a new pup around the house can be a bit of a chore. But the love and affection you’ll be getting from this little bundle of furry joy is all worth it! However, it’s important to know that there are some things you can do to help your dog mature into a lovable and loyal friend. Read on below to find out what you can do!
Help Him/Her to Socialize
Puppies can sometimes grow up to be a little aggressive if they aren’t exposed to loving behaviors from their owners or have never socialized. Find ways to do this by taking your pup to a dog park, the beach, or just by simply going for a walk around the neighborhood. If you happen to adopt an older dog that needs to socialize a bit, then consider signing him/her up with a professional dog trainer.
Play in a Safe Environment
Play with your dog in a protected environment (such as your home) to prevent accidental or intentional biting by:
- Not annoying him/her if they seem uninterested in playing.
- Avoiding rough play styles like wrestling or jumping.
Pay Attention to Their Body Language
Consider how your pup is acting when playing with children and adults to prevent any biting incidents. If you notice that he/she seems uninterested in being social, don’t force him/her to be with other people. It’s also important to know that certain breeds act and take to people in different ways, so reach out to us to learn more about that.
Book a Behavioral Counseling Session with Us
Set up an appointment with our pet hospital to determine if your dog needs behavioral counseling or if there’s a medical reason for his/her change in behavior. Contact us today with your questions or to set up an appointment.
