When training your puppy, start with the basics to lay a strong foundation for good behavior.

Here are the first things to focus on…

Potty Training

• Consistency – Take your puppy outside regularly, especially after meals, naps, and playtime. Reward them for going outside to reinforce good behavior.

Name Recognition

• Response to Name – Get your puppy to respond to their name by saying it in a happy tone and rewarding them when they look at you. This is essential for communication and commands.

Crate Training

• Safe Space – Teach your puppy that their crate is a positive, safe space. Use it for naps and bedtime to help with housebreaking and prevent separation anxiety.

Basic Commands

• Sit – A simple command that’s easy to teach and essential for controlling your puppy.
• Come – Start early with recall training to ensure your puppy listens when you call them, especially outdoors.

Socialization

• Positive Experiences – Expose your puppy to new people, dogs, and environments to help them develop into a well-adjusted adult dog. Positive experiences early on help prevent fear-based behavior.

Bite Inhibition

• Gentle Play – Teach your puppy not to bite too hard during play. Redirect them to chew toys and praise them for gentle play to avoid developing a biting problem later.

Leash Training

• Walking on a Leash – Start teaching your puppy to walk on a leash without pulling. Practice indoors first, then move to short outdoor walks.

Focus on potty training, responding to their name, crate training, and basic commands like “sit” and “come” as the first steps in your puppy’s training. Socialization and teaching bite inhibition are also essential at this stage. Starting early with these basics creates a well-behaved, confident dog.