How to Raise an Independent Puppy

If you own a clingy puppy, you may find it endearing at first. But over time, you may wonder what you need to do to reduce "Velcro puppy syndrome." While it is normal for puppies to instinctively follow their owners, it is true that encouraging dependence may be counterproductive -- it can make a pet overdependent. Excess clinginess may lead to a dysfunctional attachment that may pave the way for future problems. Learning how to raise an independent puppy will help your puppy mature into a well-adjusted dog and will play an important role in your puppy's development.

Things You'll Need

  • Dog gate
  • Kong
  • Treats
  • Crate
  • Dog mat
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Instructions

    • 1

      Install dog gates to prevent your puppy from following you from room to room. Raising your puppy underfoot will cause your puppy to become clingier. It may help to give your dog an extended-release food treat such as a stuffed Kong when you must leave the room. Once your puppy tolerates being separated from you by the dog gate, you may gradually shift to closing the door so your puppy can no longer see you.

    • 2
      Crates mimic dog dens and make puppies feel secure.

      Invest in a crate. When introduced properly, a crate can be a comfortable place where a puppy feels secure. Let your puppy stay in the crate for brief periods of time, gradually making the periods longer. Reward your puppy for staying in the crate without much fussing, and avoid opening the crate when the puppy is whining.

    • 3
      Barking is often an attention-seeking behavior.

      Ignore your puppy's whining, barking or misbehaving when he is prevented from being close to you. Petting your puppy, talking to him or giving him any form of attention when he is whining will only make problems worse.

    • 4
      Train your puppy the "go to your place" command.

      Place a dog mat on the floor and make it your puppy's place to go while you run errands around the house. To make the place more appealing, place a stuffed Kong on the area and other safe toys. Praise your puppy when he settles there.

    • 5

      Downplay your arrivals and departures. If your puppy greets you enthusiastically after a brief absence, ignore your puppy and give him attention only minutes later when he calms down. If you need to leave the house, don't make a great deal about it. Leave a long-lasting food treat before heading out.

    • 6
      Provide lots of mental stimulation and exercise.

      Encourage games that keep your puppy at a distance from you. Hide a toy in another room, or place treats around the house to find. Train a game of hide-and-seek. Exercise your puppy as needed. Once tired, your puppy will be less likely to follow you around.