Common Puppy Training Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Potty training is usually the first hurdle you’ll face as a new puppy parent. It’s a bit messy, but with patience and consistency, you can help your puppy get it right.
Mistake #1: Inconsistent Schedule
Puppies have tiny bladders and need to go out frequently. If you're not consistent with their potty schedule, accidents are inevitable. An unpredictable schedule confuses your puppy, making it harder for them to grasp where and when it’s okay to go.
How to Avoid It:
Stick to a regular potty schedule, taking your puppy out every 2-3 hours, especially after meals or naps.
Always take them to the same spot for bathroom breaks. Familiarity helps them learn faster.
Mistake #2: Not Enough Praise (and Treats!)
Positive reinforcement is a powerful tool. Puppies are eager to please, and by offering praise or a treat when they do their business in the right spot, you reinforce good behaviour.
How to Avoid It:
Shower your puppy with praise and offer a treat immediately after they finish doing their business outside.
Always use a happy, encouraging voice to make it clear that they’ve done something right.
Mistake #3: Ignoring Accidents
Cleaning up your puppy’s accidents without addressing them is a missed opportunity to teach. If your puppy doesn’t understand that an accident is undesirable, they’ll keep making the same mistake.
How to Avoid It:
If you catch them mid-accident, interrupt gently with a firm “no” and quickly take them outside to their potty spot.
Don’t scold them for accidents you find later—puppies have short memories, and punishment after the fact won’t help.
Mistake #4: Punishing Accidents
Punishing your puppy for accidents is one of the biggest puppy training mistakes. It can create fear and anxiety, making your puppy more likely to hide when they need to go, leading to more accidents.
How to Avoid It:
Focus on positive reinforcement. When you catch them in the act, guide them to the right spot.
Never rub their nose in it or yell—this can damage their trust in you.
Managing the Bite: Teaching Chew Control
Puppies love to chew—it's a natural behaviour. But when their sharp little teeth start nibbling on your hands, furniture, or shoes, it can quickly become a problem.
Mistake #1: Letting Them Nibble on Your Hands
It might seem harmless when your puppy playfully nibbles on your fingers, but it teaches them that biting is okay. As they grow, those playful nips can become painful.
How to Avoid It:
As soon as your puppy nips, say “ouch” firmly and withdraw your hand.
Immediately offer them a chew toy as an appropriate alternative. This teaches them what’s okay to chew.
Mistake #2: Ignoring the Chewing
Puppies won’t just grow out of chewing—they need to be taught what’s appropriate. Ignoring the behaviour won’t solve the problem.
How to Avoid It:
Puppy-proof your home by removing items they might be tempted to chew.
Provide plenty of chew toys and rotate them regularly to keep your puppy engaged.
Mistake #3: Yelling at Them
Yelling at your puppy for chewing on the wrong things won’t stop the behaviour. It might even make them chew secretly when you’re not looking, which is harder to correct.
How to Avoid It:
If you catch them chewing on something they shouldn’t, say “no” firmly and calmly, then redirect their attention to a chew toy.
Reinforce good behaviour with praise when they chew on their toys.
Socialisation Savvy: Setting Your Puppy Up for Success
Socialising your puppy is crucial for their development. It helps them grow into a confident, well-adjusted dog who can handle new environments and people without fear.
Mistake #1: Not Starting Early Enough
The critical window for socialisation is between 3-16 weeks of age. If you wait too long, your puppy may become fearful or anxious around new people, dogs, and experiences.
How to Avoid It:
Start socialising your puppy as soon as they’ve had their first round of vaccinations. Introduce them to different people, places, and situations in a controlled and positive manner.
Mistake #2: Overdoing It
Puppies can be easily overwhelmed. Bombarding them with too many new experiences at once can create anxiety rather than build confidence.
How to Avoid It:
Start with short, positive experiences and gradually introduce more complex or busier environments. Make sure every interaction is a pleasant one for your puppy.
Mistake #3: Skipping Vaccinations
While socialisation is vital, it’s equally important to ensure your puppy is fully vaccinated before they interact with other dogs or visit public places.
How to Avoid It:
Speak with your vet about a vaccination schedule that allows you to safely socialise your puppy as soon as possible.
The Basics of Puppy Training: Key Principles to Keep in Mind
When it comes to puppy training, there are a few fundamental principles that will help you succeed and avoid unnecessary setbacks.
Consistency Is Key
Puppies thrive on routine. If you’re not consistent with commands, rewards, or rules, your puppy will become confused, and their training will take longer.
Tip:
Stick to the same commands for each behaviour. If you want your puppy to “sit,” always use that word. Consistency across the board makes it easier for your puppy to understand what’s expected.
Patience, My Friend
Training a puppy isn’t an overnight process. Some puppies learn faster than others, but they all need time, repetition, and patience.
Tip:
Don’t get discouraged if your puppy doesn’t pick up on things immediately. Stay calm, keep working at it, and remember that every puppy is different.
Keep It Positive
Puppies respond best to positive reinforcement. Encouragement, praise, and treats go a long way in reinforcing good behaviour, while punishment can cause fear and confusion.
Tip:
Make training sessions fun and rewarding for your puppy. The more enjoyable the experience, the more eager they’ll be to learn.
Wrapping Up: Avoiding Common Puppy Training Mistakes
Training a puppy can feel overwhelming at times, but by avoiding these common puppy training mistakes, you’re setting both you and your furry friend up for success. Remember, consistency and patience are your best tools in raising a well-behaved, happy pup.
If you avoid these pitfalls and stay positive throughout the training process, your puppy will grow into a wonderful companion, bringing joy and harmony to your household for years to come.
At Gramayre Groodles and Poodles, we ensure all of our puppies are socialised and well-prepared for their new homes. If you're looking for a well-trained Groodle or Poodle to bring into your family, contact us today to learn more about our available puppies and expert support in raising your new companion.
Frequently Asked Questions
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If your puppy is having frequent accidents despite following a regular schedule, it might be time to consult your vet. They can check for any underlying medical issues, like a urinary tract infection, that might be making potty training difficult.
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Puppies explore the world with their mouths, so chewing is natural. Redirect their energy towards appropriate chew toys. Use products like bitter apple spray to deter them from chewing on furniture, shoes, or other off-limits items.
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A well-socialised puppy should be comfortable around a variety of people, dogs, and environments. If your puppy remains calm and confident in new situations without showing fear or aggression, they are likely well-socialised. If they seem anxious or avoidant, more exposure may be needed.
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Small, healthy treats are great for training, as well as verbal praise and affection. Using a favourite toy during training sessions can also keep your puppy engaged and motivated. Vary the rewards to keep training sessions interesting and effective.
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Some puppies are more independent or slow to pick up on commands. Stay patient and consistent, and don’t give up! If your puppy is particularly challenging, you might want to consult a professional trainer for more advanced strategies.