A puppy has ruined four pairs of shoes by chewing them up at times when the family is not home. Which of the following is the MOST effective way to use punishment to teach the puppy not to chew shoes?
A) Make a loud noise whenever you come home and find shoes chewed up, but then hug it and give it a bone so that it won't be afraid of you.
B) Make a loud noise whenever you catch it in the act of chewing shoes, but then hug it and give it a bone so that it won't be afraid of you.
C) Make a loud noise whenever you catch it in the act of chewing shoes, but not at other times.
D) Make a loud noise whenever you come home and find shoes chewed up.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Punishing the puppy whenever it is caught in the act of chewing shoes is the most effective way to teach it not to chew shoes. Making a loud noise at other times or when the family arrives home and finds shoes chewed up will not effectively associate the punishment with the behavior. Consistency and immediate consequences are key in teaching a puppy new behaviors. Rewarding the puppy with a bone and affection after the punishment can help reinforce positive behavior.

A Puppy Has Ruined Four Pairs of Shoes by Chewing