It’s A Dog’s Life—

Tips on Training

By Mary Jane Anderson

Q. A friend told me to leave my puppy in a crate when I am out of the house. This seems too restrictive. Do you think it’s a good idea?

A. Yes. Puppies should not be allowed the freedom of the house when no one is at home. Only a dog that is entirely housebroken should be given this privilege. A crate can serve as the puppy’s bed and security blanket and the place where he goes to sleep. Many problems and frustration would not occur if owners heeded this advice and unfortunately, many dogs are still having mistakes, even in adulthood.

Q. Herbie, a 6-month-old puppy, is already a terrible beggar. It has gotten so bad, I must put him in another room while we eat dinner. What would you suggest?

A. Herbie must learn how he must behave while you are having your dinner. Teach him to obey your command down/stay across the room. He will soon rest quietly while you eat and he will not be banned from the family dinner table or family gatherings. Remember, begging is owner-induced; if the dog begs and gets food, a bad habit will easily develop.

Q. Is there some way to keep my puppy from chewing everything in the house?

A. Yes. A puppy should be provided with plenty of toys to divert him from chewing shoes, socks, legs of chairs and tables. Marrow bones cooked can be ideal bones for the dog to chew on. They are hard and will not splinter or harm your puppy. Hard rubber toys are excellent for your puppy to chew on. Don’t give old shoes or socks, otherwise he will develop a bad habit — after all, a sock is a sock, new or old for a puppy.

If your pup starts chewing on something other than his toy, verbally disapprove with a firm “No” and remove the object and give him one of his own toys. Chewing is connected with teething and it will continue until 5 or 6 months of age, until they have their permanent teeth. But, if you are persistent during those months, constant chewing will stop and he will concentrate on only chewing his own toys.

Q. Buddy, my dachshund, is 6 months old. When friends come to my house, he either climbs into my lap for attention or pesters my visitors. My friends say they don’t mind but I surely do. What can I do?

A. Teach your dog to lie down with his leash on and have him lie down/stay while your company comes into a room and sits down to visit. Wait at least 10 to 20 minutes before you allow your dog to get up. He should be calmer. If he continues again, however, have him lie down/stay again. Eventually, he will get the message.

But, this must be done each and every time. Buddy possibly needs more exercise and more contact with people and other dogs.

If this is a problem, I would suggest you contact a local dog obedience class where Buddy could learn good manners as well as meet new friends.