Bringing home a new puppy is an exciting experience. Yet it can also be incredibly stressful. Puppies love to run around uncontrollably, especially when they are first getting used to their new home. They may also act aggressively toward you or other people.

Thankfully, you don’t have to deal with this behavior forever. You do not have to abandon your furry friend, either. There are ways to tame your puppy so he becomes a well-mannered member of your household.

Teach Self-Control

Puppies need to learn that they will get what they want when they listen to you and act appropriately. Start out by teaching your pet just to look at you before he asks for a treat or to be let out of his crate.

Over time, you should incorporate other commands into this exercise. Every time your puppy wants food or a toy, have him first sit, stay and look at you. This will help your puppy realize that you are the rule maker of the household.

Of course, you need plenty of treats to use as rewards during these training sessions. Yet you do not want to give your puppy something that is unhealthy, either. Dr Marty offers treats that are both tasty and nutritious. Dr Marty pets coupons are available, as well.

Show Dominance

When you teach your puppy these commands, you need to establish dominance. You can do this by refusing to let your dog pull you during walks. You also should not allow the puppy to walk through a doorway before you do.

If your dog does jump on you or display other wild behavior, grab a treat and tell him to sit or stay. Give him the treat when he obeys but ignore him if he starts showing dominance again. Eventually, your puppy will realize that he gets more praise and attention when he listens to you.

Use Playtime

Playtime is another way to establish your relationship with your dog. You can even utilize certain types of games, such as structured tugging, as training tools.  

Even if you do not have time for a lengthy game of tug or fetch every day, you should make sure your puppy gets enough exercise. Puppies often act out because they need to expend their excess energy. Ideally, you should walk your dog at least 30 minutes each day. Larger and more energetic breeds may require even more time outdoors.

Socialize Your Pup

If your puppy acts aggressively toward everyone, he may simply be scared of the strange world around him. Exposing him to new sights and sounds at an early age can help tame this behavior. When he is eight to 16 weeks old, take him to new or loud locations and introduce him to different people and animals. He will realize that there is no reason to lash out or be afraid.

With proper training, wild puppies can be tamed into calm pets. While changing your pup's behavior may be difficult at first, the reward will be years of a loving relationship.