Understanding Your Puppy's Behaviour: What's Normal and What's Not

Bringing a new puppy home is one of life’s most joyful experiences. Their playful energy, innocent curiosity, and boundless affection can quickly make them the heart of your home. But for first-time dog owners, these little bundles of joy can also be a source of confusion and concern. Is it normal for a puppy to chew on everything? Should I be worried if my puppy is overly fearful or aggressive? Understanding the difference between normal puppy behaviour and signs of potential issues is key to raising a happy, well-adjusted dog.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore what’s considered typical puppy behaviour, red flags to watch out for, and tips for managing common behavioural issues. Whether you're a new puppy parent or an experienced dog owner, this blog will provide you with the insights and tools you need to navigate the ups and downs of puppyhood.

What’s Normal Puppy Behaviour?

Puppies, like human babies, go through stages of development that influence their behaviour. During these phases, certain behaviours may seem extreme or problematic but are actually a normal part of growing up. Let’s take a look at some of the most common behaviours you’re likely to encounter during your puppy’s early months.

Playful Biting and Chewing

Why it happens:

Puppies use their mouths to explore the world around them, just like human babies. Biting and chewing are natural ways for them to relieve the discomfort of teething, exercise their jaws, and satisfy their curiosity.

How to manage it:

While biting is normal, it’s important to teach your puppy early on what’s appropriate to chew on and what’s not. Redirect their attention from your hands or furniture to chew toys designed for teething puppies. Toys like Pet PaWz Teething Chew Toys can soothe sore gums and keep your puppy entertained for hours.

Pro Tip: Consistency is key when correcting unwanted biting. Every time your puppy bites, immediately stop playing and offer a chew toy instead. Over time, they’ll learn that biting means playtime ends.

Hyperactivity and Zoomies

Normal or not?

If your puppy suddenly dashes around the house at top speed, you’re witnessing a phenomenon known as the “zoomies.” These bursts of energy, scientifically called Frenetic Random Activity Periods (FRAPs), are completely normal and a sign that your puppy is healthy and full of life.

How to manage it:

Zoomies are typically triggered by excess energy, so the best way to manage them is by ensuring your puppy gets plenty of exercise. A combination of physical play, walks, and mental stimulation can help reduce hyperactivity. Try interactive toys from Pet PaWz to challenge their mind and tire them out.

Pro Tip: Establish a daily routine with regular playtimes, walks, and training sessions. This not only helps manage their energy levels but also creates a sense of structure and security for your puppy.

Barking and Whining

Understanding the triggers:

Barking and whining are your puppy’s primary forms of communication. They may bark to alert you to something, seek attention, or express their needs. Whining, on the other hand, is often a sign of discomfort, anxiety, or a request for something (like food, water, or a bathroom break).

Normal or not?

While some barking and whining is normal, excessive vocalization can indicate underlying issues like boredom, anxiety, or a lack of training.

How to address it:

Start by identifying the cause of the behaviour. If your puppy is barking or whining for attention, resist the urge to immediately respond. Reward them only when they’re quiet to avoid reinforcing the behaviour. Early training is crucial—use positive reinforcement to teach them commands like “quiet” or “enough.”

Behavioural Red Flags to Watch For

While many of the behaviours we’ve discussed are normal, there are certain signs that could indicate a deeper problem. If you notice any of the following behaviours, it may be time to consult a veterinarian or a professional dog trainer.

Excessive Biting or Aggression

When it’s a problem:

It’s normal for puppies to bite during play, but if the biting becomes aggressive or directed toward humans in a harmful way, it could signal a deeper issue.

Possible Causes:

• Anxiety or fear: Puppies who feel threatened or scared may resort to biting as a defence mechanism.
• Lack of proper socialisation: Puppies that aren’t exposed to a variety of people, animals, and environments may develop fear-based aggression.

What to do:

If your puppy’s biting continues despite redirection and training, consult with a professional trainer. Early intervention is key to preventing this behaviour from becoming ingrained. Socializing your puppy with other dogs and people in a controlled, positive environment can also help curb aggressive tendencies.

Fearful or Anxious Behaviour

Signs:

Common signs of anxiety in puppies include trembling, hiding, excessive barking, and refusal to engage with new people, pets, or environments.

Understanding Triggers:

• Lack of socialization: Puppies need exposure to different sights, sounds, and experiences to develop confidence.
• Past trauma: If your puppy was adopted from a shelter or had a rough start in life, they might be more prone to anxiety.

Solutions:

Start by gradually exposing your puppy to new environments, people, and animals. Reward them with treats and praise when they remain calm. Consider using calming aids like the Pet PaWz Calming Bed, which offers a cosy, secure space for anxious pups to retreat to.

Pro Tip: Avoid forcing your puppy into situations they find frightening. Instead, let them approach new experiences at their own pace, building confidence over time.

Overly Submissive Urination

Normal or not?

Submissive urination is common in puppies, especially when they’re overly excited or scared. This behaviour typically occurs when greeting new people or dogs or during moments of excitement.

What it signals:

Submissive urination is a sign of insecurity or fear, and while it’s often outgrown, it can persist if not addressed properly.

Training Tip:

Never punish your puppy for this behaviour, as it will only increase their anxiety. Instead, focus on building their confidence through positive interactions. Reward calm behaviour and avoid making a big fuss during greetings to help prevent overexcitement.

Lack of Interest in Play or Interaction

Cause for concern?

If your puppy seems unusually lethargic, disinterested in play, or reluctant to engage with people or other pets, it could be a sign of illness or depression.

Consult your vet:

Inactivity in a puppy is not typical and could indicate underlying health issues such as infections, pain, or digestive problems. If your puppy is consistently lethargic, schedule a check-up with your veterinarian.

Understanding Puppy Development Stages

Puppies go through several key stages of development, each marked by distinct behavioural changes. Understanding these stages can help you better interpret your puppy’s actions and needs.

The Critical Socialization Period (3-14 weeks)

Key Behaviour Traits:

During this stage, puppies are highly receptive to new experiences. This is the time to introduce them to a wide range of people, animals, sights, and sounds to prevent future fear or aggression.

What’s Normal:

• Curious exploration
• Play with other puppies
• Interest in new environments and experiences

Abnormal Signs:

• Extreme fear or aggression toward new people, animals, or objects
• Shyness or reluctance to explore

What to Do:

Take advantage of this critical period by introducing your puppy to as many positive experiences as possible. Make sure all interactions are safe and enjoyable to help build their confidence.

Adolescence and Testing Boundaries (6-18 months)

Behaviour Changes:

As puppies grow into adolescence, they may start to test the boundaries you’ve set for them. This can manifest as rebellious behaviour, such as ignoring commands or engaging in destructive activities when left alone.

What to Expect:

• Increased energy levels
• Defiance or selective hearing
• Chewing or digging as they explore their independence

How to Manage:

Consistency is key during this phase. Stick to your training routines and ensure your puppy gets plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. Interactive toys from Pet PaWz can help channel their energy in a productive way, reducing the likelihood of destructive behaviours.

Pro Tip: Puppies in this stage are similar to human teenagers—sometimes moody, stubborn, and full of energy. Patience and consistent training are the best ways to navigate this phase.

Tips for Managing Puppy Behavioural Issues

Now that you have a better understanding of what’s normal and what’s not, let’s look at some effective strategies for managing common behavioural issues.

Positive Reinforcement

Why it works:

Positive reinforcement involves rewarding your puppy for good behaviour rather than punishing them for bad behaviour. This method is proven to be the most effective way to train dogs, as it encourages them to repeat the behaviours that get them rewards.

How to Use It:

For example, if you’re trying to teach your puppy not to bark at strangers, reward them with a treat and praise when they stay quiet. Over time, they’ll associate good behaviour with positive outcomes.

Patience and Consistency

Consistency is Key:

Puppies thrive on routine. If the rules keep changing, they’ll become confused and anxious, which can lead to behavioural issues. Whether it’s house training, crate training, or learning basic commands, staying consistent will help your puppy learn faster and feel more secure.

Establishing a Routine:

Create a daily routine that includes feeding, playtime, exercise, and training. Not only does this provide structure, but it also helps regulate your puppy’s energy levels, making them less prone to hyperactivity or destructive behaviour.

When to Seek Professional Help

When to Worry:

If your puppy’s behaviour doesn’t improve with training or seems to escalate—such as persistent aggression, extreme fear, or unresponsiveness to commands—it may be time to consult a veterinarian or a certified dog trainer.

Working with a Trainer:

A professional trainer can provide personalized advice and strategies based on your puppy’s unique needs. They can also help you identify any potential health issues that could be influencing your puppy’s behaviour.

Raising a puppy is a rewarding yet sometimes challenging experience. By understanding what’s normal puppy behavior and recognising the signs of potential issues, you can create a positive environment for your puppy to thrive. Remember that every puppy is unique, and patience, love, and consistent training are key to helping them grow into a well-adjusted adult dog.

For all your puppy’s needs, from chew toys to calming beds, check out Pet PaWz. Our range of products is designed to support your puppy’s well-being and development, making it easier for you to navigate the joys and challenges of puppyhood. Explore our store today and give your puppy the best start in life!