The short version
There is so much you’re trying to teach your new puppy, that it can feel overwhelming: house-training, sleeping through the night, not to nip, not to chew, and all the other household rules you’ve established. Add to that a puppy’s natural curiosity and energy, and you might start to feel as if he’ll never get it. This is a learning process for both of you; he or she is eager to please you and understand what’s expected of him or her, but you must also learn to be patient, calm, and consistent.
Dogs are sensitive to the moods of their owners. If you’re anxious, frustrated, and impatient, your puppy senses that, and it may make it harder to get through to him. He’ll respond best to you when you’re calm, upbeat, and assertive. If you find yourself becoming frustrated or losing patience, take a deep breath and follow a few simple guidelines to get back on track.
Tips for Being Patient With a Puppy
Bringing this adorable bundle of energy into your home is life-changing and not always in expected ways. Keep in mind that you’re trying to teach him good lifetime habits, and that won’t happen overnight. Patience, consistency, and practice will help you be a good owner and your puppy a well-behaved canine family member.
Tips for Responsible Dog Owners
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Frequently asked questions
How to bond with your new puppy?
The AKC walks through this step by step — the key points are covered above, sourced to the AKC article linked on this page. There is so much you’re trying to teach your new puppy, that it can feel overwhelming: house-training, sleeping through the night, not to nip, not to chew, and…