How to keep a puppy out of trouble
Listen, puppies are cute, sure—but they’re also little tornadoes if you don’t set some ground rules. I’ve seen it all running my sanctuary: chewed-up shoes, shredded furniture, and worse. If you want your puppy to grow up well-behaved and not wreck your place, you’ve got to be proactive and firm. No excuses.
Here’s the straight talk on how to keep your puppy out of trouble before trouble even starts.
1. Set Clear Boundaries From Day One
Puppies test limits. It’s natural. But you gotta show them who’s boss—calmly and consistently.
- Use baby gates or playpens to limit access to areas where your pup can cause damage
- Decide which furniture and rooms are off-limits—and enforce it every time
- Be consistent with rules across everyone in the household
- Use a firm, calm “no” or “leave it” when they cross boundaries
Clarity and consistency prevent confusion—and destruction.
2. Provide Plenty of Mental and Physical Exercise
Bored puppies are troublemakers. They get destructive when their energy goes unused.
- Tire your puppy out with daily walks, play sessions, and training drills
- Use puzzle toys and treat dispensers to engage their brains
- Rotate toys regularly to keep things interesting
- Include socialization with other dogs or people when possible
A tired puppy is a good puppy. Don’t skimp on exercise.
3. Keep Dangerous and Tempting Items Out of Reach
Puppies explore with their mouths—often swallowing what they shouldn’t.
- Put shoes, cords, small objects, and toxic plants out of reach
- Store cleaning supplies, medications, and human food securely
- Puppy-proof your home like you would a toddler’s room
- Watch your puppy closely when they’re loose in the house
Prevention beats emergency vet visits every time.
4. Use Appropriate Chew Toys
Chewing is natural for puppies, especially when teething.
- Provide durable, safe chew toys to satisfy their urge
- Redirect chewing from furniture or personal items to toys
- Praise and reward your puppy when they chew the right things
- Remove toys that get damaged or are unsafe
Giving them the right outlet stops unwanted chewing behavior.
5. Train Basic Commands Early
Teaching commands like “sit,” “stay,” “come,” and “leave it” gives you control.
- Start training as soon as you bring your puppy home
- Use positive reinforcement and high-value treats
- Keep sessions short and fun, multiple times per day
- Stay patient but firm; consistency is key
Training builds respect and keeps your puppy safe.
6. Supervise Constantly and Use Crate Training
Puppies left alone unsupervised get into trouble. Plain and simple.
- Keep your puppy in sight when possible, especially during early days
- Use a crate as a safe space, not a punishment, to prevent destructive behavior
- Gradually increase time alone to build independence
- Never leave your puppy unsupervised in unsafe areas
Supervision and safe confinement save your belongings—and your sanity.
7. Address Problem Behaviors Immediately
Don’t ignore bad habits hoping they’ll go away.
- Correct unwanted behavior calmly and promptly
- Redirect your puppy to appropriate alternatives
- Reward good behavior generously
- Seek professional help if needed—don’t wait until things spiral
Early intervention stops trouble in its tracks.
Final Word: You’re the Leader Your Puppy Needs
Keeping a puppy out of trouble isn’t about luck or hoping for the best. It’s about leadership, vigilance, and consistent boundaries. If you set clear rules, provide enough exercise, supervise closely, and train patiently, your puppy will grow into a well-mannered dog you can be proud of.
Step up, stay calm, and take charge. Your puppy—and your home—will thank you for it.
