Top 5 Puppy Training Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid the most common puppy training mistakes with tips.

1. Using Punishment Instead of Positive Reinforcement.

Punishment doesn't teach your puppy what to do, only what not to do, leading to fear and confusion. It’s like asking a child what 7 x 7 is without teaching them the times table, then telling them off them for getting it wrong—it doesn’t really make sense.

Puppies with all their biting, chewing and jumping up etc are just doing what comes naturally. These behaviours aren't a sign of your puppy being naughty, or dominant. Your puppy is simply being a canine with very species specific needs and development, some of which are different to our own. Normal and natural puppy behaviours are often at odds we what we humans consider good manners. The easiest and most effective long-term solution is to focus on teaching your puppy what you'd like them to, using reward-based methods. Rewards include many things, such as play, praise, petting, access to particular environments or activities.

If you're unsure how to train certain behaviours, reaching out to a certified trainer can help you achieve your goals humanely.

2. Skipping Socialisation

Missing the key socialisation window (between 3-14 weeks) can lead to difficulties later. Socialisation happens in two key phases: conspecific socialisation (3-8 weeks), where puppies learn from their mother and littermates, and human socialisation (8-14 weeks), where they are introduced to people, environments, and different experiences.

A knowledgeable trainer can help you choose a responsible, educated breeder. A good breeder ensures positive experiences early in your puppies life.

Your trainer can also provide you with a comprehensive guide to socialisation and enrol you in a group puppy class, supporting you to safely expose your pup to new experiences, people, and other dogs.

3. Expecting Too Much From Your Puppy

Puppies will chew, bite, tug, and tear—it's all part of being a pup! If you have children, always supervise play and never leave them unattended. Keep sessions short, calm, and fun to avoid overwhelming both your puppy and your children. You can also ask your trainer for safe, engaging activities to help your children and puppy bond in a positive way.

4. Overwhelming Your Puppy

Too much of anything in one go can overwhelm your pup and lead to unwanted behaviours. Watch your puppy’s body language closely to ensure they’re feeling safe and comfortable. Always offer your puppy a choice to proceed, rather than forcing or bribing them into situations they find stressful. This approach builds confidence and trust. Your trainer can help you to understand dog language.

5. Focussing Too Much On Getting Everything Perfect.

The main thing your puppy needs in the early days is to feel safe and secure. This is the foundation for everything. Spend time bonding with your puppy, creating joy and pleasure being close to you. From this secure foundation, focus and attention, handling and husbandry, recall, loose lead and polite greetings will follow much more easily.

You can learn more from joining my group puppy classes or 1-2-1 puppy training sessions in Cottingley to set your puppy up for success. I welcome owners from Shipley, Bingley, Baildon, and Saltaire. Let’s make your puppy's early beginnings, feel safe and secure and training fun and rewarding.

Pippa x

Categories: : puppy training