To the owner, particularly a first-time
owner, the behavior of a young puppy can be quite bewildering.
Some behavior patterns are influenced by genetics and breed
type, effecting activity level and preferences, as well
as overall personality. Other behaviors are unacceptable
and need corrected, while some actions may indicate a serious
problem. Many normal puppy behaviors, such as mouthing,
will be unacceptable to owners. Teaching appropriate behavior
will take care of some potential problem areas. When in
doubt, ask your veterinarian, breeder or a trainer about
the questioned behavior. In the meantime, below is a list
of normal and potentially abnormal puppy behaviors.
Normal puppy behavior
Mouthing or chewing.
"Talking" or vocalizing during play.
May be cautious but curious; may remove objects from cabinets,
closets, trash.
Being active, energetic.
Avoiding direct eye contact except briefly.
Easily distracted, short attention span.
Wants to play with everything and anything.
Pawing, batting at or pouncing on toys or people.
Barking, whining, mild crying.
Rolling over on back.
Jumping up on people.
Wants to be near you, follows you or wants to touch you
while resting.
Chewing on whatever is in sight, furniture, clothes, books.
Sleep patterns: may be frequent, at odd times, and may twitch
during sleep.
Rolling in smelly objects, such as rabbit droppings.
Has to urinate every time he drinks, sleeps, wakes up, plays
or goes out.
Abnormal behavior
Biting, snapping or attempting to bite
people (and most pets).
Growling.
Overly shy or fearful; may hide in corner, under furniture
or stay in crate.
Hyperactivity.
Aggression.
Maintaining eye contact in intimidating manner.
Unable to concentrate or focus attention even briefly.
Overly possessive of food, toys or bed.
Attacking other people or other pets in a non-playful or
threatening manner.
Excessive or repetitious barking or crying.
Cowering and cringing.
"Clingyness," afraid to let owner out of sight.
Somewhat normal but may indicate
health problem
Eating or licking feces or vomitus.
Excessive circling, head shaking, staring at nothing.
