How to Stop a Puppy From Taking Toys

Training a new puppy can be challenging. If you play with your puppy, it may be confused as to which items are considered toys and which are appropriate for it to play with. Consistency is the key in teaching a puppy the correct behavior. You must set boundaries and let the puppy know which are its belongings and who is the boss.

Things You'll Need

  • Ropes
  • Bones
  • Balls
  • Treats
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Instructions

    • 1

      Puppy-proof your home by placing items that you do not want it playing with out of reach. Avoid the temptation for your puppy by keeping toys in a toy box.

    • 2

      Teach your puppy basic commands, such as "sit." Use a treat as a reward. Hold the treat high above the puppy's head. Push its bottom down so that it is in a seated position and say, "Sit." Give the puppy the treat. Do this several times a day. Eventually the puppy will associate the word "sit" as a command.

    • 3

      Be consistent when you tell your puppy, "No." Say it firmly so you have its attention. Take the toy away from it. Each time you see the puppy with something it should not have, say, "No" and remove the object.

    • 4

      Place dog items that the puppy is allowed to play with in its area. Use bones and pig ears, ropes and balls. Use dog-specific items that do not look like children's toys.

    • 5

      Walk your puppy daily to provide him with plenty of exercise. Give your puppy attention and play with it often. A bored puppy that is left alone for long periods of time will misbehave more often than a puppy that is active and receives attention