How Do I Get Him To Stop?

Question
Hi! I have an Aussie, and he's just about 1 year old. And we're having a bit of a problem with him lately. My dad loves to plant things, and our Aussie is always digging up the dirt, pulling the plants from the ground, chewing up my dad's gardening gloves, knocking over garbage cans, stealing our shoes and hiding them somewhere. In other words, he's very mischievious!

But I can see that my dad is losing his patience. What can we do to get my Aussie to stop doing all these things?

Thanks.  

Answer
Although your dog looks grown up, he is still a puppy and learning what is expected of him. He should never be left unattended in the house or yard. If you must leave him alone, make sure he has a secure place to stay where he doesn't have access to objects or places he isn't supposed to.

Aussies don't like to be left alone without anything to do and will find something to keep themselves busy. This is normal for such an active breed. Try participating in daily activities like teaching your pup obedience commands, playing games of catch or frisbee or taking him for long walks. Keeping him inside so he feels like he is part of the family and where he can receive consistent training will help as well.

You can redirect your dogs natural urge to chew by providing him with toys and bones. Protect your own property by putting up anything that might be tempting to your dog. Shoes and gloves should be picked up and put away after being worn so that the pup isn't tempted into playing with them by mistake.

If you catch him chewing on something inappropriate, tell him NO CHEW in a firm voice and then give him something that he can chew on as an alternative. Praise him when he takes the correct object.

If given consistent direction,plenty of attention and time for exercise, he will soon pass this stage and become a well behaved companion. Patience and consistency are the keys to good behavior.