Common Puppy Problems: Digging, Straying, Pulling & More

Welcoming a new puppy into your home is a joyful experience, but it also comes with challenges. Addressing common puppy problems early ensures your pup grows into a happy, well-behaved adult dog. Training young puppies is easier than correcting bad habits later, so dedicating time now sets a foundation for mutual understanding and obedience. Consistency among all family members is vital—everyone needs to share the same rules and training approach to prevent confusing your puppy. This article explores five frequent challenges: digging, straying, pulling on the lead, inappropriate chewing, and climbing on furniture, with practical advice for managing each.

Digging: Understanding and Managing This Natural Instinct

Many puppies love to dig, whether in the garden or inside your home under rugs or carpets. Digging often stems from boredom or natural instincts—especially in breeds like terriers originally bred to hunt burrowing animals. To manage digging:

• Designate a specific digging area: Create a safe spot in your garden where your puppy is allowed to dig freely. Encourage this by burying toys or treats there and reward digging in this zone.
• Provide plenty of stimulation: Prevent boredom by giving your puppy a variety of toys and engaging activities.
• Redirect and block access: If your puppy digs where they shouldn’t, gently redirect them to the permitted area and use physical barriers if needed.
• Consistency is key: Reward appropriate behaviour and apply clear boundaries to help your puppy learn acceptable digging habits.

By understanding the root of the behaviour and offering a positive outlet, you reduce unwanted damage while respecting your dog's instincts.

Straying and Running Away: Prevention and Recall Training

Some breeds, such as the Siberian husky puppies, have high energy levels and a natural tendency to roam. Puppies may stray due to curiosity or the desire to explore, which can be risky. To prevent straying:

• Secure your home and garden: Ensure your boundaries are escape-proof to keep your puppy safe.
• Start recall training early: Use positive reinforcement to teach your puppy to come when called. Reliable recall is crucial to prevent accidents and lost pets.
• Neutering benefits: Un-neutered dogs have a higher tendency to stray. Consult your vet about the best age to neuter your puppy unless breeding is planned.
• Supervised outdoor time: Especially during early exploratory stages, supervise your puppy carefully when outdoors.

Consistent recall training and secure containment create a safe environment for your adventurous puppy.

Pulling on the Lead: Teaching Good Walking Habits

Lead pulling can make walks stressful. Preventing this requires training from an early age:

• Early familiarisation: Get your puppy comfortable wearing a collar and lead.
• Teach to heel: Encourage your puppy to walk beside you rather than forging ahead. Use treats and praise to reinforce this.
• Correct pulling gently: If your puppy pulls, calmly stop walking or give a short, gentle jerk to regain attention, avoiding any tugging matches which may be interpreted as play.
• Experiment with equipment: Different dogs respond to head halters, harnesses, or collars. Choose what suits your dog and aids training.
• Provide adequate exercise: An under-exercised pup will have excess energy leading to poor walking behaviour. Regular walks and playtime reduce pulling driven by excitement.

Early and consistent lead training makes walks pleasant for both you and your puppy.

Inappropriate Chewing: Redirecting Natural Teething Behaviour

Chewing is natural, especially during teething when puppy teeth fall out and adult teeth emerge. To manage chewing:

• Offer safe chew toys: Ensure your puppy has plenty of appropriate toys to relieve teething discomfort instead of chewing household items.
• Create a toy zone: Organise a specific area for toys to help your puppy recognise what is theirs to chew.
• Redirect when caught: If your puppy chews something inappropriate, gently remove the object, say “no” firmly, then replace it with a toy and praise your puppy for using it.
• Provide mental and physical stimulation: Boredom can increase destructive chewing, so keep your puppy engaged with activities.

Managing chewing positively while understanding your puppy’s needs helps prevent damage and supports healthy development.

Climbing on Furniture: Setting Clear Boundaries Early

Decide whether your puppy is allowed on furniture before bringing them home. Clear rules reduce confusion:

• Establish rules early: Decide if the puppy can go on all, some, or no furniture, and ensure all family members follow the same policy.
• Teach commands: Even if you allow furniture access, train your puppy to come down when asked to respect visitors or other household settings.
• Avoid mixed signals: Resist the temptation to allow furniture access “just this once”, as this can confuse your puppy and make later rules harder to enforce.
• Use barriers if needed: Baby gates or other obstacles can restrict access to certain rooms or furniture.

Consistency across household members is essential to successful furniture training and maintaining harmony.

Conclusion

Successfully managing common puppy problems such as digging, straying, pulling on the lead, chewing, and climbing requires consistent training, clear boundaries, and plenty of mental and physical stimulation. Early and united efforts from all family members ensure your puppy understands expectations and grows into a well-adjusted dog. Remember, positive reinforcement and patience go a long way. If you face persistent difficulties, consulting a professional trainer or behaviourist can provide tailored solutions to keep your puppy happy and your home peaceful.