“Dogs shouldn't jump on and off couches” Fact. Jumping on and off the couch isn't ideal for dogs because of the combination of different surfaces. Going from hard to soft (and vice versa) increases the likelihood of twists and injuries, as does repeating a 'high load' activity over and over.
To get your puppy off a piece of furniture take him gently but firmly by his collar and say "off" while helping him down from the furniture. Release your puppy's collar once he is on the floor and give him praise and a treat.
While you might think puppies are resilient and strong, their bones are actually fragile. Dogs' bones reach maximum strength after puberty. Less dense bones, accordingly, mean more potential for fractures. Signs that a puppy has fractured a bone may include obvious things like limping or not using one leg.
Since puppies have bodies that aren't as strong as adult dogs, they can unintentionally overexert or injure themselves. Muscle strains are one fairly common injury among young pets. Puppies' muscles aren't fully formed yet and can be easily hurt.
Dogs are “pack” animals which means they think of their human family members as pack mates. When you allow your dog on your sofa or bed, instinct tells them they are equal or above their humans in the pack hierarchy. For some dogs, this can lead to territorial behavior.
It's time to teach him the “off” cue, a dog-friendly way to get your dog to move from the furniture. Take a small treat and throw it on the ground a few feet away from the couch where your dog is resting. Say “off” and make a sweeping hand gesture as your dog moves from the couch.
You will need to turn away every time your dog jumps up. This may feel a little repetitive, but consistency is essential. The more consistent you are, the quicker your dog will learn that jumping up doesn't work.
Call your dog over and let him see the treat in your hand. As you close your hand, say "No!". Let him lick and sniff, but do not give him the treat. When he finally gives up and backs away, praise him and give him the treat.
If your dog jumps on people and nips them when they get excited, they need to learn the “No” command. Say “No” in a firm tone (but don't yell), and if your dog stops the problematic behavior, reward them with a treat or praise. If your dog gets too excited, having them learn commands can help stop the nipping.
Waking a sleeping dog is likely to result in the dog being startled and disoriented. To prevent bites, make sure that visitors and children know not to bother dogs who are sleeping. Waking a sleeping dog can lead to even well socialized and otherwise friendly dogs snapping or even biting.
Whenever your pup tries to jump onto the couch, block the area, tell them, “Out” and walk toward them, gently guiding them out of the area. Provide a comfortable place for them to lie on the floor. Every now and then, drop treats there for your puppy to find so they'll visit the area often.
There is no right or wrong decision for allowing or not allowing your dog on the bed or couch, just preference. You ultimately have to decide for yourself. There is no inherent, danger, or problem allowing a pet to sleep on your bed or couch or be anywhere we are (exceptions are below).
Dogs want to be comfortable and relaxed, and sitting on the couch allows them to do that. The fabric is soft, there is plenty of space, and he can nuzzle in the corner of the couch and feel secure. It is really a great place to be. The couch also smells like you.
Increases Potential for Developing Separation Anxiety
A huge part of teaching your puppy to sleep on their own is to encourage their confidence and sense of independence. Sleeping with your puppy can inadvertently perpetuate their anxiety at being left alone and not allow your puppy the ability to build resilience.
Prolonged close contact to dogs exposes them to pet dander and may result in respiratory symptoms. But even people who do not have pet allergies can suffer increased allergic symptoms when co-sleeping with their dog. When dogs are ouside, dust and pollen clings to their fur and can exacerbate human allergies.
Conclusion: Pawing means your dog wants your attention. If your dog puts their paw on you while you're spending time together, it's likely an expression of affection or the gestural equivalent of “pet me more!”
A crate is a great place for your dog to sleep! Not only does a crate guarantee that your dog won't get into trouble in the middle of the night, but it also provides him comfort and security. If you have decided to crate-train your dog, it is ideal to pad the crate with soft blankets or pillows.
Dogs should sleep in a place that's comfortable for them, like in a crate or on a dog bed, but where your dog sleeps will always be a compromise between you and your dog.
The answer for this is simple. Put the behavior on a command, such as “Up!” paired with a hand signal of patting your chest. The dog is only allowed to jump up when he hears that command, and must immediately stop when he hears the word “Enough!” or “Okay!” Ask for a sit if your dog is having a hard time stopping.
Here's how to do it: When he jumps up onto the counter in search of food, put a dog treat in front of his nose. When you have his attention, use the treat as a lure to guide him off the counter and onto the floor, saying “Off.” When his feet hit the ground, say “Yes” (or click) and give him the treat.
Interrupt your dog's jumping and guide them to an area where they cannot jump up on people or put them on a leash so you can better control the situation. You can ask them for a sit and then allow them to greet your visitors, or simply give them something else to do in their crate, pen, or puppy zone.
But in all honesty, there's no 'right time' for a puppy to go to sleep, as long as it's the same every night. While this may be the case, do note that your puppy will need, on average, around 8-10 hours of sleep per night.
The instant you feel your puppy's teeth touch you, give a high-pitched yelp. Then immediately walk away from him. Ignore him for 30 to 60 seconds. If your puppy follows you or continues to bite and nip at you, leave the room for 30 to 60 seconds.
Keep to a regular routine of taking your puppy outside at least every two-to-four hours and after every change of activity. This is especially important during house training and will keep accidents to a minimum. Several short play sessions during the day are better for a puppy than one long one.