How to deal with a protective pup

Our experts solve your pooch problems, starting with a puppy who’s a bit too attached to his toys

There are few better ingredients for a happy family life than a pet dog. But, sometimes they do things we would prefer they didn’t. Whether your dog can’t stop jumping up at visitors, chewing your slippers or growling if you try to rescue your child’s favourite teddy from the dog basket, the Dogs Trust Wagony Aunts are here to help with expert advice.

Q How do I stop my puppy guarding his toys?

A The best thing to do is help your dog learn to swap. Every time you need to take something, swap it for something they like just as much, or even more – a different toy, say, or some extra tasty treats.

Offer this to your dog a little way away from what they already have. They should be enticed to drop what they have and come to you to get their reward. They’ll learn it’s a good idea to let go of things they are enjoying, as they’ll be replaced with something as good, or even better.

Don’t tell your dog off for guarding as this might worry or confuse them.

Q My dog jumps up at people. What can I do?

A Most dogs jump up to get our attention. So, you need to teach him that it’s keeping all four paws on the floor that gets results. Don’t respond or react when he jumps up – even telling him to get down is a form of attention. Stay calm and quiet and wait for him to stop. Reward him when all four paws are on the floor. Don’t tell your dog off for jumping up as this might worry or confuse him.

Consistency is key, so make sure family, friends and likely visitors are on board with the training too.

Q How can I prevent my dog from chewing things he shouldn’t?

A Mouthing and chewing are normal canine behaviours, so we need to give our dogs plenty of opportunities to do this in a safe and acceptable way.

To help prevent your dog from mouthing and chewing things you don’t want them to, you need to make it clear which things they can chew. There are plenty of practical steps you can take:

Make sure any prized or hazardous items are kept out of reach.

Use baby gates to restrict access, but make sure your dog has something to keep them occupied.

Provide a wide variety of suitable toys and chews – swap them every day to keep your dog interested.

Keep a toy or chew handy so when you think your dog might be about to chew on something inappropriate, you can give them something else instead. That way you’ll be showing them how to get it right.

When they are chewing the right things, praise them!

Avoid rough-and-tumble games that might encourage mouthing.

Remember, your dog might be more prone to mouth or chew things if they’re bored and not getting enough mental or physical exercise.