Mistakes to Avoid in High Drive Puppy Training

Raising a high-drive puppy is both exciting and challenging. Breeds such as Belgian Malinois, German Shepherds, and Border Collies often have endless energy, sharp intelligence, and an instinct to work. While this makes them excellent working dogs, it also means that high drive puppy training requires patience, consistency, and the right techniques.

Unfortunately, many new puppy owners make common mistakes that can slow progress or even encourage unwanted behaviors. Whether you’re a first-time owner or working alongside a working dog behavior expert, knowing what not to do is just as important as knowing what to do.

Below are the biggest mistakes to avoid in high drive puppy training—and what to do instead.

Mistake #1: Underestimating Their Energy Needs

High-drive puppies are not like average pets. They need more than a short walk around the block. When their energy isn’t channeled into productive activities, it often comes out in destructive ways—chewing furniture, excessive barking, or constant nipping.

Example: A young Malinois left alone without exercise may shred shoes or dig holes in the yard.

What to Do Instead:

• Provide structured exercise like long walks, fetch sessions, or agility training.
• Introduce mental stimulation through puzzle toys, obedience drills, and scent games.
• For breeds like the Belgian Malinois, include behavior training for Malinois that matches their natural working instincts.

Mistake #2: Relying Only on Physical Corrections

Some owners assume that firm corrections or punishment will control a high-drive pup’s energy. But high-drive dogs often see this as a challenge, leading to more resistance or even aggression.

Why It’s Harmful:

• Creates fear instead of respect.
• Damages the bond between you and your puppy.
• Fails to teach the dog what to do instead.

Better Approach:
Focus on positive reinforcement—reward desired behaviors with treats, toys, or praise. For example, when your puppy sits calmly instead of jumping on guests, reward them immediately. This teaches them that calm behavior gets them what they want.

Mistake #3: Skipping Early Socialization

High-drive puppies need exposure to people, sounds, and environments early on. Without it, they can develop anxiety, fear, or reactivity as they grow.

Example: A Malinois that has never met children may become nervous or defensive around them later.

Actionable Tips:

• Expose your puppy to controlled environments: busy streets, parks, and friendly strangers.
• Pair new experiences with rewards to create positive associations.
• Keep sessions short and upbeat to avoid overwhelming your pup.

Mistake #4: Inconsistent Rules and Training

One day you allow your puppy on the couch, the next you scold them for it. Mixed signals create confusion and slow down training.

Why Consistency Matters:
High-drive dogs thrive on structure. They learn quickly, but only when rules are clear and consistent.

How to Stay Consistent:

• Set household rules (e.g., no jumping on counters, no rough play indoors) and make sure everyone enforces them the same way.
• Use the same verbal cues and hand signals for commands.
• Keep training sessions short, consistent, and frequent (5–10 minutes, several times daily).

Mistake #5: Neglecting Mental Training

Many owners focus on tiring their puppies physically but forget about mental challenges. A tired body is good, but a stimulated mind prevents unwanted behaviors.

Practical Ideas for Mental Training:

• Hide treats around the house and encourage your puppy to “find it.”
• Teach complex tricks like “spin,” “roll over,” or “bring me the toy.”
• Start simple behavior training for Malinois or other working breeds, focusing on tasks like carrying objects or practicing scent work.

Mistake #6: Expecting Instant Results

High-drive puppies are smart, but they also push boundaries. Owners often get frustrated when progress feels slow, leading to inconsistent efforts or giving up too soon.

Reality Check:

• Training takes time and patience.
• Progress is often two steps forward, one step back.
• Consistency builds lasting results.

Encouragement:
Celebrate small wins. For example, if your pup stays calm for just 10 seconds during a sit-stay, that’s progress worth rewarding. Over time, those seconds will turn into minutes.

Mistake #7: Not Seeking Professional Guidance

High-drive puppies can overwhelm even experienced owners. Without help, problems like reactivity, excessive mouthing, or stubbornness may worsen.

Why Professional Help Matters:
A working dog behavior expert understands how to channel drive into productive activities. They can create a tailored plan for your puppy’s breed, temperament, and household environment.

When to Ask for Help:

• If your puppy shows aggression or fearfulness.
• If you’re struggling with impulse control (e.g., chasing, lunging, barking).
• If training feels stressful or ineffective despite your efforts.

Final Thoughts

Raising a high-drive puppy is demanding, but it’s also deeply rewarding. With the right guidance, these energetic, intelligent dogs can grow into loyal companions and skilled working partners.

To succeed in high drive puppy training, avoid the common mistakes of underestimating their needs, relying on punishment, skipping socialization, being inconsistent, neglecting mental training, expecting overnight results, and ignoring expert help.

By providing structure, patience, and enrichment, you’ll build not only obedience but also a strong bond of trust and respect. And when in doubt, don’t hesitate to reach out to a working dog behavior expert who can guide you and your pup toward success.