Welcoming a new puppy is exciting,but training is essential for happy,well behaved dog. This guide covers basic obedience ,potty training,socialization,and common puppy challenges.
- Potty Training
Set a Schedule – Take your puppy out: - First thing in the morning
- After meals, naps, and playtime
- Every 1-2 hours (young puppies can’t hold it long!)
- Use a Cue Word – Say “Go potty” when they eliminate outside.
- Reward Immediately – Praise + treat when they succeed.
- No Punishment for Accidents – Clean with enzyme cleaner to remove smells.
- Basic Obedience Commands
Teach these 5 key commands first (use treats & positive reinforcement): - “Sit” – Hold a treat above their nose, move it back until they sit.
- “Stay” – Ask for a sit, say “Stay,” step back, reward if they hold.
- “Come” – Use a happy voice + treats when they approach you.
- “Leave It” – Cover a treat with your hand, reward when they back off.
- “Down” – Lure them into a lying position with a treat.
- Pro Tip: Keep sessions short (5-10 mins) and fun!
- Crate Training (Safe Space & Housebreaking)
✔ Make the Crate Comfortable – Add bedding, toys, and treats.
✔ Start Slow – Let them explore first, then gradually increase time.
✔ Never Use as Punishment – It should feel like a cozy den. - Ideal Crate Time:
- 8–10 weeks – 30–60 mins max
- 3–6 months – Up to 2–3 hours
- Socialization (Critical for Confidence!)
Expose your puppy to new experiences between 8–16 weeks: - People (kids, strangers, hats/glasses)
- Other Dogs (puppy classes, vaccinated dogs)
- Sounds (traffic, vacuums, doorbells)
- Surfaces (grass, tile, stairs)
- Avoid dog parks until fully vaccinated.
- Common Puppy Problems & Fixes
- Issue Solution
- Biting/Nipping Redirect to a chew toy, say “Ouch!” and stop play.
- Barking Ignore demand barking, reward quiet behavior.
- Jumping Turn away, reward only when all paws are on the floor.
- Chewing Furniture Provide approved chew toys, use bitter spray on forbidden items.
- Sample Puppy Training Schedule
- Time Activity
- 7:00 AM Potty break + short walk
- 7:30 AM Breakfast + training (5 mins)
- 9:00 AM Playtime + socialization
- 12:00 PM Potty break + nap in crate
- 5:00 PM Obedience training
- 7:00 PM Last potty break before bed
