Training a puppy can be a challenging task and when you have a puppy that is strong-willed, it can be even harder. Puppies inherently look for a pack leader to follow. If the puppy enters a home in which the pet owner does not establish herself as the one in control, the puppy doesn't receive the proper guidance it craves and can therefore assert himself as leader. If you have a naturally strong-willed puppy, this situation can be even more detrimental. Any puppy can be trained -- even those who are strong-willed -- with the proper techniques.
Instructions
Assert yourself as the pack leader. This can be done by always walking through doors first and placing your scent on the puppy's food by handling it before feeding it to him. In addition, it is important to take your puppy for walks, as this creates a relationship with him and is an outlet for all that puppy energy. A puppy who has an abundance of energy with no outlet will typically be even more stubborn. A puppy who receives the proper amount of exercise is usually more cooperative. Your positioning on walks is of the utmost importance. When your puppy walks next to you and you are in control of the leash, you are establishing your leadership. If he walks in front of you, he is taking control.
Be consistent in your training techniques. The strong-willed puppy will constantly try to assert his way of doing things. Most of the time, an owner will give up before a determined puppy does, but if you do give in, you show the puppy that he is in charge and this will only lead to more dominant behavior. Continue teaching your dog until he does what you have asked him and then reward him.
Make your puppy work for his rewards. If you reward negative behavior, your strong-willed puppy will only learn that being bad is acceptable and gets him what he desires. Before your puppy gets a treat, toy or anything that is of value to him, make sure he does something you ask him to, whether it's sit, stay or another trick. Have your puppy wait for your permission even before he eats his meals. These techniques will teach your strong-willed puppy that he needs to do what you ask before he is allowed what he wants.
Use a gentle leader on your puppy to control him on walks. If you are unable to walk your strong-willed puppy without him pulling you, try a gentle leader. This collar is used around the dog's mouth. When he pulls, it will push his head down, putting him into a submissive position. Overtime, as you establish more control, you may be able to walk him without using this collar.
Correct undesirable behavior by placing the puppy on his back and saying "no.". This position is submissive for your puppy, as it exposes his belly. A strong-willed puppy will likely struggle with you when in this position, but be sure to hold him down until he stops. Do not hit or punish your dog when he misbehaves, as this will only lead to fearful aggression.