Nipping unacceptable behavior in the bud

Golden Retriever puppies are so very adorable that humans are so very willing to accept unacceptable behavior - why? Because those puppies are just so darn cute! However, they have needles for teeth and they can cause you to get stitches - not a good thing. So how do I get my puppy to stop biting and shredding my clothes? First and foremost - NIP THAT IN THE BUD - IT IS NOT ACCEPTABLE BEHAVIOR. If you let it happen, it is guaranteed to get worse. Be gentle, but firm and CONSISTENT. Gently put your hands around the pups snout and rub and say "no bite" until they stop, and have an alternative in your other hand - always. Give them what YOU want them to chew on - and it is not you! You can also "yelp" like a puppy that has been bitten by a sibling and say "OUCH NO BITING". Your pup will not expect that outburst and give them what YOU want them to chew on. Whenever they stop doing the unacceptable behavior, please make sure and praise them and tell them "Good Puppy".

Walking Past Barking Dogs

When out for a sniff and mark of the world with your dog and you approach a property where a dog or dogs are barking what sound ferociously at you (really at your dog), what should you not do? Please be respectful of the dog(s) that are barking at you (your dog). Even if they look like a sweet dog - They are telling you this is my home and unless my humans welcome you, you are not ok. Please don't stop and stare hoping those dogs are saying "hi" because they are not! Don't get closer, you are stressing out your dog and the dogs that are vigilantly guarding their home or something else. You, the dog walker, have no idea what that dog(s) is guarding - it could be its pack mates, an older dog that needs it's pack for defense, or maybe even a litter of puppies or a young dog that cannot defend itself. So what to do? If possible, move to the other side of the street, it will increase your steps ;) and your dog will appreciate you putting distance between him and those barking dogs, and MOVE ON!