Here is the latest of what is going on with us.  We just found that we will be relocating within the next 6 weeks or so.  We will be moving from Colorado to California.  When we first move we will be moving in with an older couple until we get on our feet.  This is going to be quite a change for all involved since we come with 3 young kids and a puppy, however we know that it will work out.  Now for the problem.  Minnie is still a young pup at just over 3 months, but she has some habits I would like to break.  She gets excited and jumps up on people and no matter what I do to correct this she continues to do it.  She also chews on everything.  She shreds paper.  Anything she can find she chews on.  This is something I have wanted to correct anyway but especially now that the stuff she chews on won't be mine.  She has also started to sneak out of the house whenever someone opens the door and then she runs from me and it takes forever for me to catch her.  Any advice?  I don't know if I should try to find a doggie obedience class around here or if that would be helpful with her age or not.  Any advice would be wonderful!  Thanks!!

 Puppies show many behaviors that are a normal part of social activity with other dogs, but which are usually not acceptable to humans, and the most common of these are biting, jumping, and chewing.

Chewing is a normal activity for dogs which alleviates boredom and stress. Also, puppies learn about the world around them by picking objects up in their mouth to "feel" them. Chewing can also alleviate the discomfort of teething. If your puppy picks up something that you don't want her to have, take it away and say, "No", then substitute one of her own toys. Remember, puppies cannot tell the difference between old clothes and new clothes, so never let a puppy have old castaway socks, sneakers, or shoes. Finally, never punish for chewing unless you catch the puppy in the act. She won't know what she's being punished for and will learn to fear you.

    When meeting people, puppies jump to get to a person's face. They often use the person's breath for identification. Discourage jumping by teaching the puppy to sit and stay when meeting people. Do this with the pup on a short leash, lift at the collar and push the haunches down. Pet and praise when she sits. The new person then casually greets with hand extended, palm open. If the puppy jumps, slip a hand under the collar and pull to the side placing the puppy back on four feet and praise. If you catch the puppy as she is about to jump, say "No jump". Then pull her down with the leash. Be persistent and consistent. Don't allow jumping on anyone at anytime. The key to successful training is consistency and patience!