How to Discipline a Corgi Puppy: 10 Vet Approved Tips
By Jordyn Alger
Updated on
Puppies of any breed need to learn discipline early on to behave properly. Corgis tend to have minds of their own, but if they are introduced to proper training early on, they can be willing and even eager training participants. This is an intelligent breed that can learn quickly if given the opportunity. If you are struggling to discipline your corgi, look at these 10 tips we have compiled to help you.
The 10 Steps to Discipline Your Corgi Puppy
1. Redirect Your Corgi’s Behavior
When your Corgi displays behavior that you do not approve of, try redirecting it. For instance, if he bites your finger, redirect that impulse toward a chew toy. It is crucial that you consistently reinforce this idea.
If you allow your corgi to bite you one day but then redirect that behavior the next, he will not learn the lesson you are trying to teach him. The more you redirect his behavior, the sooner he will know what is expected of him.
2. Don’t Be Afraid to Yelp When Bitten
Our reactions are a good way to show your corgi what is right and wrong. If your puppy nips you, let out a loud yelp. When puppies are hurt, they make a similar sound. You can help your corgi understand that he is hurting you when you replicate the sound.
After yelping, ignore your Corgi. This can reinforce that this behavior is wrong and that he will not like the consequences. Unfortunately, some Corgis may respond to the yelp with excitement rather than upset. If this is the case with your Corgi, this tactic may not be suitable for you.
3. Don’t Give a Reaction
If yelping does not work for your Corgi, it might be best to ignore him when he bites. So, rather than reacting immediately to your Corgi’s bad behavior, you should ignore him. Put your chin up and look away from your dog. Keep your arms folded, remain still, and hold this position until your Corgi leaves.
Ideally, this should prove to your Corgi that his poor behavior results in negative consequences or a lack of wanted attention. Also, Corgis were bred to be herding dogs, and a lot of the nipping comes from instinct. He is simply doing what comes naturally to him. If you do not react to the herding behavior, he should learn that you are in charge and that he should not attempt to herd you.
4. Avoid Over-Exciting Your Corgi
Depending on your Corgi’s personality, he may become excited when you yelp or say “no.” If this is the case, you will see your Corgi running around and repeating the very behavior you are trying to discourage. Essentially, the poor behavior is being reinforced despite your efforts.
To avoid this, you will need to change tactics. Avoid verbal reactions and instead shift towards silent treatment. The lack of response on your part should help your Corgi to learn that his behavior is unacceptable.
5. Create “Time-Out” Spaces
If you can find and designate an area for time-outs, it can help your Corgi behave properly. While your dog’s crate could be a time-out spot, you shouldn’t make his time-out spot the same place as his relaxing space. If you send him to the same spot to sleep, relax, and endure time-outs, the purpose of that spot may become confused.
When your Corgi nips or does something else you are trying to discourage, send him into the time-out space and leave him there. He needs to be alone and separated from people for a brief amount of time.
6. Provide Exercise
Corgis are energetic dogs. If they do not have an opportunity to burn off their energy, they will become restless, which can lead to the mischievous behavior you are trying to discourage. It is recommended that corgis receive around an hour of exercise per day.
If you can provide activities for your corgi to help him use his energy productively, he will be less inclined to get into trouble. This can make the training period much easier to bear.
7. Be Consistent with Training
Consistency is critical when training any dog. When trying to curtail certain behaviors, it is vital that you are constant with the redirection or rewards you give for certain behaviors. For instance, if your Corgi nips and you would typically ignore him as a consequence, you need to continue to do so if it is effective. If you do not present the repercussions for his behavior each time, he will not realize that his behavior is something you are trying to prevent.
8. Provide Positive Reinforcement
Positive reinforcement is a great way to promote behaviors that you like. If your Corgi comes when he is told or sits when you tell him to, rewarding him for those behaviors is important if you want him to continue them.
Rewards can be as simple as petting and praising him or offering a yummy treat. Positive reinforcement will help your puppy learn what you want them to do, not just what you do not want them to do. Any behavior you want to promote should be rewarded until your dog learns what is expected of him.
9. Find a Puppy Class
Puppy classes are an excellent resource to utilize. Not only are they effective at teaching your corgi good behaviors, but they are also an excellent tool for you. If you are unsure how to best train your corgi, puppy classes can provide you with the skills you need so you can learn to train your dog on your own.
Classes where you, as the dog owner, are not present are not recommended, as you will not be learning any of the skills you need to reinforce your corgi’s behaviors. Being present in the class and learning alongside your puppy is best.
10. Combine Methods
Any of the methods listed here can be successful tactics for you, and you should be open to more than one of these options. Putting multiple ideas to the test can be the most effective way to ensure that your corgi learns.
Of course, some tactics may not work for your dog (such as yelping). Once you learn what is most useful for your situation, you can begin to form a discipline plan specific to your corgi.
Conclusion
Training a new puppy takes work. It requires dedication and patience, and there is no perfect way to approach each dog and situation. It is up to you to determine what your Corgi needs to learn and what is expected of him to create a training plan that reflects those needs. We hope this list has helped guide you in the right direction as you start your training journey.
Featured Image Credit: Natali.lymarenko, Shutterstock
