Behaviour & Discipline

Raising a Well-Mannered Pup

(Without Losing Your Mind!)

Good behaviour doesn’t just magically happen – it’s taught!

Helping your dog understand the rules of your home (and the world) takes patience, consistency, and plenty of positive reinforcement.

Here at Wagwise, we’re all about teaching your pup with kindness – and a good laugh along the way.

Grumpy Old Max says:

"Discipline? You mean teaching manners? Took me 10 years to master ‘sit.’ Don’t expect miracles overnight, folks."

A boy is standing next to a small dog on a leash.

Why Good Behaviour Training Matters

Every dog is born with boundless energy and curiosity – but not with a built-in rulebook!

Teaching good behaviour is about setting clear boundaries so your dog feels safe and secure.

Training isn’t about punishment – it’s about guidance, trust, and rewarding the right choices.

When your dog knows what’s expected, you’ll both enjoy a stronger bond and a happier home.

Grumpy Old Max’s tip:
"Humans think we’re born knowing ‘no chewing shoes.’ Newsflash: shoes smell amazing. You’ve got to teach us what’s off-limits!"

Common Behaviour Problems (and How to Fix Them)

Dogs aren’t naughty on purpose – they’re just trying to figure out our strange human world.

Let’s tackle the most common issues with a mix of Max’s grumpy wisdom and practical solutions.

🐕 1. Barking Too Much

Grumpy Old Max says:

"Sometimes we bark at leaves, sometimes at ghosts. Either way, yelling ‘quiet!’ rarely works."

Solutions:
✅ Find out what’s triggering the barking.
✅ Teach the “quiet” command using treats and praise.
✅ Keep your dog mentally and physically active – a tired dog barks less.

🪑 2. Chewing Furniture

Grumpy Old Max says:

"Sofas are just big chew toys. Prove me wrong."

Solutions:
✅ Provide plenty of chew toys and swap them out regularly.
✅ Use bitter sprays to deter chewing on furniture.
✅ Supervise puppies and redirect chewing straight away.

🙌 3. Jumping on People

Grumpy Old Max says:

"You’re tall, we’re short. Physics says we gotta jump!"

Solutions:
✅ Ignore jumping and only reward calm greetings.
✅ Train your dog to “sit” before they say hello.
✅ Ask guests to join in – no pats until all four paws are on the floor.

🌱 4. Digging Up the Yard

Grumpy Old Max says:

"It’s called landscaping. You’re welcome."

Solutions:
✅ Give your dog a designated digging area or sandpit.
✅ Keep them busy with exercise and puzzle toys to prevent boredom digging.
✅ Remove buried treats or toys that encourage digging.

Discipline Done Right – No Yelling, No Fear!

Dogs don’t learn through fear – they learn through reward and consistency.

The Golden Rules of Training:

✔ Positive Reinforcement: Reward good behaviour with treats, praise, or play.
✔ Consistency: Use the same commands every time.
✔ Patience: Training takes time – just like teaching kids.
✔ Redirection, Not Punishment: Guide your dog to make the right choices.

Grumpy Old Max’s advice:

"You humans think shouting fixes everything. Spoiler alert: it doesn’t. Try a liver treat – works every time."

Two cartoon dogs are sitting next to each other in a circle.

When to Seek Professional Help

If your dog shows aggression, severe anxiety, or behaviour that feels unmanageable, it might be time to call in a pro.

Certified trainers and behaviourists can make a world of difference.

Grumpy Old Max says:

"Even I needed a trainer. And look at me now – grumpy but polite!"