Stop Sock Stealing and Other Puppy Problems

Stop Sock Thievery and Similar Puppy Issues

If you ask anyone who has ever had a little dog and they will definitely tell you that any puppy’s most enjoyable activities is naughtily hunting through the house to find items to steal, such as socks, plasric toys and more. In fact, this is sometimes so fun to dogs that without proper training, even many adult dogs will keep doing it.

So, what’s a owner to do? To let them continue 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 turns into a game of "catch me if you can", in which the humans run all over attempting to retrieve the prize while the puppy {runs away to escape|runs around outsmarting them. Dining room tables are a favorite tool in the canine sleuth’s caper, 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 lure the dog into dropping the item in favor of the snack. However this serves as a reward for stealing stuff and dogs quickly figure out that whenever they want an extra snack, they can simply steal something to end up getting one.

Even if you’re a first time dog 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 method, created to help dogs give up a life of theft:

1. Puppy safe- clean up so there’s very little for your dog to steal.

2. Move calmly- If you chase your dog, you’re in a game. Instead, walk slowly and use strong body language.

3. Do obedience- Basic commands, such as sit, down and fetch, can help a lot to earn your dog’s respect.
Say NO" - Don’t forget to use this phrase consistently, rather than just saying "Stop it,Get over here, etc."

5. Provide toys- If he gets bored with them, rotate them once in a while.

6. Make sure the toys are nearby- Put them in whichever area your dog is spending time in.

7. Correct and replace- If your dog steals an item, tell him "No", take back the item and replace with a dog toy. Praise lavishly when the toy is in his mouth "Good dog."

8. Set him up- Actually practice not stealing stuff. With your dog on leash, spread out a bunch of items such as slippers, remote controls, etc. When your dog looks like he’s planning on snatching an item, say "No" leave it! If he doesn’t take it, praise lavishly. If he takes it, use the "No", replace with a dog toy, then praise.

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

10. Do not give people items - Such as used shoes, children’s stuffed animals, etc. To your dog, they smell like the humans’ stuff. It is almost impossible for them to grasp that it’s alright to play with the used socks but not the new.

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.

12. Maintain a sense of humor- Remember, a puppy is a puppy and their games 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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