Can you spoil a puppy by holding it too much?

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asked Jul 4, 2022 in Dogs by Egsbendict (23,910 points)
Can you spoil a puppy by holding it too much?

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answered Jul 9, 2022 by Crazytoaster (40,770 points)
You cannot really spoil a puppy by holding it too much.

However you should not hold a puppy too much as it can cause health issues with the puppy and may cause the puppy to develop weak muscles as they need to walk and move around to strengthen their muscles.

It's normal for puppies to want to be held all the time.

They are a lot like babies in the first few weeks and can drive you crazy with their insistent crying and clinginess.

What you have to do is be patient, keep the puppy close until they adjust, and provide enough physical stimulation.

Affection is an important part of the human dog bond and when thoughtfully utilized, can be beneficial for both dog and owner.

However badly timed affection can worsen problems, build over stimulation, reward inappropriate behavior, and create instability in some dogs.

Only holding the puppy for one or two minutes at a time is ideal.

As time goes on and the puppy become less dependent on their mother, you can hold them for longer.

Never take a puppy off his mother while he's breastfeeding, because drinking her milk is crucial for his health and natural development.

If the puppy continues to cry for a long time, then there may well be something you need to help them with.

If you do go and check, limit your time with them.

Check if they need the toilet or if they are hurt, then settle your puppy again and leave.

If they start up again, as hard as it may seem, leave them alone.

In general, the minimum amount of interaction time for a puppy to be happy and healthy is two to three hours per day.

This will give you enough time for training, play, cuddling, and feeding.

Small dogs or puppies that demand to be picked up or put down should not get what they want until they sit or do another acceptable quiet behavior.

They should not be put down unless they are settled quietly in your arms.

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