Adding a new Golden Retriever puppy to your family is a wonderful time. However, it also comes with its fair share of challenges, especially when it comes to dealing with common behavior issues. From chewing on furniture to excessive barking, puppies can display a range of behaviors that might test your patience. In this blog post, we will explore some common puppy behavior issues and provide effective training solutions to help you and your furry friend build a strong and positive bond.

1. Chewing: Chewing is a natural behavior for puppies as they explore the world with their mouths. However, it can become problematic when they target your furniture, shoes, or personal belongings.
   
   Training Solution:
   • Provide appropriate chew toys and rotate them regularly to keep your puppy engaged.
   • Supervise your puppy closely and redirect them to chew toys when they attempt to chew on inappropriate items.
   • Use bitter-tasting deterrent sprays on furniture to discourage chewing.
   • Ensure your puppy gets enough physical and mental exercise to prevent boredom, which can lead to excessive chewing.
     
2. Potty Training Accidents: Potty training is a crucial aspect of puppy ownership. Accidents inside the house can be frustrating, but it’s essential to remain patient and consistent during this process.
   
   Training Solution:
   • Establish a regular potty schedule, taking your puppy outside first thing in the morning, after meals, playtime, and naps.
   • Use positive reinforcement, such as treats and praise, when your puppy goes potty outdoors.
   • Supervise your puppy indoors and look for signs that they need to go potty, such as whining, sniffing, or circling.
   • Clean any accidents thoroughly with an enzymatic cleaner to remove the scent and avoid encouraging repeat accidents.
   • Place a bell at puppy level near the door. Ring it each time you take the puppy outside to potty and they will associate the sound with having to go. They may learn to ring it to alert to needing to potty.
     
3. Excessive Barking: Puppies may bark to communicate, seek attention, or express boredom or anxiety. While barking is natural, excessive barking can become problematic.
   
   Training Solution:
   • Identify the triggers for your puppy’s barking and address the underlying cause. For example, if they bark for attention, practice ignoring the barking and rewarding quiet behavior.
   • Teach your puppy the “quiet” command using positive reinforcement.
   • Provide mental and physical stimulation through interactive play and training sessions to keep your puppy engaged and less likely to bark out of boredom.
     
4. Jumping on People: Puppies often jump on people as a way to greet and seek attention. While this behavior may seem harmless in small puppies, it can become problematic as they grow older. A full-sized Golden jumping on you when you aren’t expecting it is not a fun experience.
   
   Training Solution:
   • Ignore the jumping behavior and avoid giving attention until your puppy has all four paws on the ground.
   • Teach your puppy the “sit” command and reward them for sitting when people approach.
   • Ask visitors to follow the same protocol and avoid encouraging jumping behavior inadvertently.
   • An aluminum foil pie plate can be used to tap the puppy on the head to create a deterrent noise and teach that the behavior is unwanted.
     
5. Leash Pulling: Taking your puppy for walks is essential for their physical and mental well-being, but leash pulling can make walks less enjoyable.
   
   Training Solution:
   • Use a slip lead rather than clip leash to discourage pulling.
   • Practice loose leash walking using positive reinforcement techniques. Reward your puppy for walking calmly by your side and stop moving forward when they start pulling.
   • If the puppy starts to pull, use short tugs rather than gradual pressure to keep them from getting used to pulling.
   • Be patient and consistent, as leash training takes time and practice.
     
6. Separation Anxiety: Especially with sensitive breeds like Goldens, puppies may experience separation anxiety when left alone that can lead to excessive whining, barking, or destructive behavior.
   
   Training Solution:
   • Gradually get your puppy used to being alone by leaving them alone for short periods and gradually increasing the duration.
   • Create a positive association with alone time by providing special toys or treats that they only receive when you leave.
   • Practice departures and arrivals calmly, avoiding excessive attention before leaving or when returning home.
     

Understanding and addressing common puppy behavior issues is crucial for building a strong and positive relationship with your furry companion. Through consistent and positive reinforcement training techniques, you can effectively manage and resolve behavior challenges such as chewing, potty training accidents, excessive barking, jumping on people, leash pulling, and separation anxiety. Remember that patience, consistency, and understanding are key when working with your puppy. By investing time and effort into their training and well-being, you will lay the foundation for a well-behaved and happy companion for years to come.