Puppies can become distracted quickly.
Instead of planning one long lesson, practice for a few minutes at a time throughout the day.
For example, you might practice “sit” before breakfast, recall in the afternoon, and leash skills before an evening walk.
Stop while your puppy is still interested.
Short, successful sessions can make training feel like a game rather than a chore.
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4. Teach Your Puppy to Sit
“Sit” is one of the easiest basic commands to teach.
Hold a small treat near your puppy’s nose.
Slowly move the treat upward and slightly backward. As your puppy follows the treat, their bottom will often move toward the floor.
As soon as they sit, reward them.
After several successful repetitions, begin adding the word “sit” just before the behavior.
Never force your puppy into position. Give them time to work it out.
5. Teach Your Puppy to Come When Called
Recall is an important skill because it teaches your puppy to return to you.
Start indoors where distractions are low.
Move a short distance away and cheerfully call your puppy. When they come toward you, praise them and reward them when they reach you.
Make coming to you rewarding.
Never call your puppy to you just to punish or scold them. You want your puppy to associate returning to you with safety and good things.
Practice in secure environments before attempting recall around stronger distractions.
6. Begin Potty Training Immediately
A predictable routine makes house training easier.
Take your puppy to an appropriate toilet area regularly, especially:
- After waking up
- After eating
- After drinking
- After play
- After naps
- Before bedtime
Watch for signs that your puppy may need to go, such as sniffing the floor, circling, wandering away, or becoming restless.
When your puppy toilets in the correct place, praise and reward them right away.
Accidents will happen. Clean them thoroughly and continue the routine rather than punishing your puppy.
Very young puppies cannot hold their bladder for long periods, so frequent opportunities are important.
7. Introduce Crate Training Gradually
A crate can provide your puppy with a safe resting space when introduced properly.
Make the crate comfortable with suitable bedding and allow your puppy to explore it.
You can toss treats inside or feed meals near or inside the crate.
At first, keep the door open.
Once your puppy willingly enters, practice closing the door briefly while you remain nearby. Gradually increase the duration as your puppy becomes comfortable.
Never use the crate as punishment.
The goal is for your puppy to see the crate as a calm and secure place.
8. Teach Good Puppy Biting Habits
Puppies explore with their mouths. Biting and chewing are normal parts of puppy development, but they still need to learn what they can bite.
Keep appropriate chew toys available.
