Tips for Raising a Puppy During COVID-19

If you look around, you might be able to find one of the silver linings to the year everyone has dubbed simply as #2020. One of the most common? All the new furry family members welcomed into homes the past few months. And another being, the launch of BHV Training as Atlanta’s premier Dog Training business.

Interesting timing, to say the least.

Bringing a puppy home during a period in which we’ve spent more time at home than ever before presents many pros and cons. Yes, the emotional companionship of a new furry family member is a lift for any household, and exactly what so many of us need. And sure, you’ve been around more for those frequent potty training exercises and basic training needs. But there are certainly some cons that we don’t want to lose sight of. Puppies need to be around other dogs at a young age, not to mention discovering new sights, smells, and sounds.

And just so you know – you’re not alone! We aren’t just saying that, either. Dog diaper sales increased to $24 million for the 24 weeks ending Aug. 15, up 202% from the same period last year, according to Nielsen research. Twenty percent of respondents to a Nielsen survey in July said they adopted one or more dogs or cats between March and June, up from less than 5% over the same time last year.

Being stuck inside has certainly made life difficult for many puppy parents. But there’s still time to help!

A lack of socialization for young puppies and adolescent dogs is sure to cause more fearful, reactive, and aggressive behavior. It cannot be overstated how important socialization is for dogs at a young age. Appropriate exposure to new people, new things, new places, new sounds, and of course, new dogs, is critical to raising a well-balanced, confident, and happy dog.

In fact, change in any form can cause dogs to become more anxious and fearful, causing many unwanted behaviors. Here are a few tips to help your dog go through these transitions as smoothly as possible:

  It is extremely important to socialize all dogs appropriately, but it is especially crucial to do so with young puppies and adolescent dogs. If there is anything you want your dog to be comfortable with in the future, like guests coming into the home, fireworks, or a nearby park, you should practice exposing them in a positive way while they are young.

  Try to keep your dog’s routine as close to normal as possible. Dogs do far better with a predictable schedule than one with no rhyme or reason.

  To help prevent separation anxiety, everyone in the home should practice leaving for work or school like normal. Make the coffee, pack the bags, grab the keys. Close the garage door and drive away.

  If your dog is already exhibiting some separation anxiety behavior, give them something high value and engaging, like a Kong toy with peanut butter, to help distract them as you leave. Make sure it is something you can safely leave with your dog when they’re alone.

  Never force your dog to get closer to something that makes them fearful. Instead, use treats and other good things to give your dog a positive association with the new experience.

  Have guests give your dog treats when they come inside your home. Play firework sounds on the TV or computer while your dog is enjoying their favorite treat. Allow your dog to play with other dogs off-leash in a controlled environment where they feel comfortable. Sometimes it’s as simple as letting your dog enjoy the interesting smells at a park to keep them happy and excited.

And of course, BHV Training is here to help in any way we can. With one-on-one Private Training, Board-and-Train programs, and Group Classes, we’ve got a training option that will fit your dog and your lifestyle.

Our number one priority is the well-being of your dog. We would love nothing more than to help your puppy with any issues beyond the basic training you handle at home. Which, of course, will help us achieve our number two priority. Making sure that in these difficult times, your new furry family member can continue to be a happy source of unconditional love and empathy, something we all so desperately need.

Michael Litzky is a Certified Professional Canine Behavior and Training Master Instructor (CPCBTMI), a Certified Behavior and Aggression Management Trainer, and a Certified Professional Dog Trainer-Knowledge Assessed® (CPDT-KA®). He also is a certified AKC® Canine Good Citizen® Evaluator.