Bringing home a new puppy is an exciting adventure. From those clumsy paws to their endless tail wags, puppies bring joy, laughter, and love into a home. But with that cute face comes a major responsibility: training. Whether you’re raising a future show dog or just want a well-behaved companion, early training lays the foundation for a happy life together.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about how to train a puppy—from housebreaking and crate training to socialisation, obedience, and avoiding common mistakes.
Why Puppy Training Matters
Training isn’t just about teaching your dog to sit on command. It’s about communication, boundaries, and trust. A well-trained puppy is more confident, easier to live with, and less likely to develop behavioural problems down the line. Plus, it strengthens your bond and helps you both feel secure and relaxed at home and out in the world.
The Golden Window: Start Early
The best time to begin training is between 8 and 16 weeks of age, when your puppy is most receptive to learning. While training can start later, habits—both good and bad—begin forming the moment your puppy enters your home.
1. House Training: The First Milestone
Set a Schedule
Puppies thrive on routine. Feed your puppy at the same time every day and take them outside:
- First thing in the morning
- After meals
- After naps
- Before bedtime
- Every 1–2 hours when young
Pick a “Potty Spot”
Always take your puppy to the same spot to do their business. Use a cue like “go potty” and reward immediately with praise and a small treat.
Watch for Signs
Sniffing, circling, and restlessness are signs your pup needs to go. If you catch them in the act indoors, interrupt gently and take them outside—never punish them after the fact.
2. Crate Training: Their Safe Space
Crate training helps with house training, prevents destructive behaviour, and offers your puppy a den-like space where they can feel secure.
Tips for Success:
- Make it comfy with soft bedding and a toy
- Use positive reinforcement—never force your puppy into the crate
- Start with short periods while you’re at home and build up gradually
- Never use the crate as punishment
Crating should be a positive experience. Most dogs will come to love their crate if introduced gently.
3. Socialisation: The Window Doesn’t Stay Open Forever
Between 3 and 16 weeks, puppies are in a crucial phase where they learn how to react to the world. During this time, gently expose your puppy to:
- Other dogs and animals
- Different people (ages, appearances)
- Sounds (traffic, vacuum, doorbells)
- Surfaces (grass, wood, pavement)
Avoid overwhelming your puppy—socialisation should be positive and controlled. A well-socialised dog is less likely to develop fear or aggression issues later on.
How to Train a Puppy: A Complete Guide for New Dog Owners
4. Basic Commands: Sit, Stay, Come
Sit
Start with a treat in hand. Hold it above your puppy’s head and slowly move it back over their nose. As they follow the treat, their bottom will naturally drop. Say “Sit,” and reward.
Stay
Ask for a sit, then open your palm and say “Stay.” Step back, return, and reward. Increase distance and time gradually.
Come
Use a cheerful tone and say “Come!” while kneeling and holding out your arms. Reward with excitement. Never call your dog to scold them—it should always be a positive experience.
5. Preventing Biting and Chewing
Puppy Teething Is Normal
Puppies explore the world with their mouths. Teething lasts up to 6 months, so provide plenty of chew toys.
Redirect, Don’t Punish
If your puppy bites your hand or chews furniture, say “Ah-ah!” and offer a toy instead.
Teach Bite Inhibition
If your puppy bites too hard during play, let out a yelp and stop playing briefly. This mimics how littermates teach boundaries.
6. Walking Nicely on a Lead
Start with short sessions in a quiet space. Let your puppy wear the collar and lead around the house. Practice walking at your side with plenty of treats and praise.
If your pup pulls, stop walking and wait for them to come back to you. Never yank the lead—reward when the lead is loose.
7. Consistency Is Everything
Dogs learn through repetition. Choose short, frequent training sessions (5–10 minutes, 2–3 times a day), and always end on a positive note. Everyone in the household should use the same cues and rules to avoid confusion.
8. Use Positive Reinforcement
Reward-based training is the most effective and humane method. Praise, treats, toys, and affection all reinforce good behaviour. Avoid punishment-based techniques—they often lead to fear and mistrust.
9. Know When to Seek Help
If you’re struggling with a particular behaviour, don’t be afraid to consult a professional dog trainer or behaviourist. Puppy training classes are also a great way to socialise your dog while learning together.
10. Celebrate Small Wins
Training a puppy isn’t always easy—but it’s always worth it. Celebrate the little victories: the first time they ring the bell to go out, sleep through the night, or master “down.” These moments are milestones in a lifelong friendship.
Final Thoughts
Training a puppy takes time, patience, and love—but the rewards are endless. With consistency and kindness, you’ll raise a dog who’s not just obedient, but happy, well-adjusted, and deeply bonded to you. Remember: you’re not just training a puppy. You’re raising your best friend.
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