Step-by-Step Guide to the First 10 Things to Train Your New Puppy
Bringing home a new puppy is such an exciting time, but it can also feel a bit overwhelming, especially when it comes to training. Teaching your puppy the basics from the start will not only make life easier for you but will help them grow into a well-behaved, happy dog. This guide covers the first 10 things to focus on, breaking down simple steps that can help you and your puppy get off on the right paw.
1. Potty Training
Why It’s Important: Potty training is one of the first things you’ll want to work on to keep your home clean and to establish a routine.
How to Train:
Set a consistent schedule, taking your puppy outside first thing in the morning, after meals, naps, and before bedtime.
Take them to the same spot every time and use a cue like “go potty.”
Praise and reward them with treats and affection immediately after they go.
Be patient, and remember accidents are normal! Clean up messes with an enzyme cleaner to avoid odors that might encourage them to go in the same spot indoors.
2. Crate Training
Why It’s Important: A crate provides a safe, secure space for your puppy and helps with potty training, prevents destructive behavior, and gives them a place to relax.
How to Train:
Introduce the crate slowly by making it cozy with a blanket or toy.
Encourage them to enter using treats, and praise them for exploring.
Start with short periods of time in the crate and gradually increase it.
Never use the crate as punishment. It should always be a positive space.
3. Name Recognition
Why It’s Important: Teaching your puppy to respond to their name is the foundation of all training and helps you get their attention quickly.
How to Train:
Say your puppy’s name in a happy, excited voice and reward them with a treat when they look at you.
Repeat this throughout the day, and be consistent.
Avoid using their name in a scolding tone, as you want them to associate it with positivity.
4. Sit
Why It’s Important: “Sit” is a basic command that helps calm your puppy and is useful for situations like greeting guests or waiting patiently.
How to Train:
Hold a treat close to your puppy’s nose and slowly move it up and over their head.
As their head follows the treat, their bottom will naturally lower into a sitting position.
As soon as they sit, say “sit,” and give them the treat and praise.
Practice consistently until they respond reliably to the command.
5. Stay
Why It’s Important: Teaching “stay” helps your puppy learn patience and control, which is essential for situations where you need them to remain calm.
How to Train:
Start with your puppy in a sitting position. Hold your hand up, palm facing them, and say “stay.”
Take a step back, and if they remain in place, reward them with a treat.
Gradually increase the distance and duration, rewarding them for staying put.
Be patient, as “stay” takes time and practice to master.
6. Come When Called
Why It’s Important: Recall, or the ability to come when called, is a lifesaving skill and crucial for safety, especially when off-leash.
How to Train:
Start indoors, with minimal distractions. Call their name followed by “come” in a happy tone.
When they come to you, reward them with treats and praise.
Gradually practice in more distracting environments like the backyard.
Always reward them generously when they come, so they’re excited to respond every time.
7. Leave It
Why It’s Important: Teaching “leave it” helps keep your puppy safe from potentially dangerous items they might want to pick up.
How to Train:
Place a treat in your closed hand and show it to your puppy. When they sniff or paw at it, say “leave it.”
Wait for them to stop and look away or lose interest, then reward them with a different treat from your other hand.
Gradually practice with treats or toys on the floor, using the “leave it” command, and reward them for ignoring the item.
8. Drop It
Why It’s Important: “Drop it” is useful if your puppy grabs something they shouldn’t or for playing fetch.
How to Train:
When your puppy picks up a toy, hold a treat near their nose. Say “drop it,” and as they release the item to sniff the treat, give them the treat and praise.
Repeat until they associate the command with letting go.
Practice with various toys and items, always rewarding them for following the command.
9. Leash Training
Why It’s Important: Teaching your puppy to walk on a leash without pulling or lunging will make walks more enjoyable and safe.
How to Train:
Start by letting them wear the leash around the house to get used to it.
When outside, keep treats handy to reward them for walking beside you.
If they start pulling, stop walking and wait for them to come back to you, then praise and continue walking.
Be consistent and patient, as leash training takes practice.
10. Socialization
Why It’s Important: Socialization teaches your puppy to be comfortable around other animals, people, and new environments. This helps prevent fearfulness and aggression later on.
How to Train:
Introduce them to a variety of people, environments, and friendly dogs in a calm and positive manner.
Reward them with treats and praise when they interact positively with new experiences.
Avoid overwhelming them with too many new things at once. Gradually expose them to different situations so they feel secure.
Tips for Effective Puppy Training
Keep Training Sessions Short and Fun
Puppies have short attention spans, so keep training sessions to 5-10 minutes and mix in plenty of playtime.Use Positive Reinforcement
Reward your puppy with treats, toys, or praise when they follow commands. Positive reinforcement helps them learn faster and builds trust.Be Consistent
Use the same commands, hand signals, and rewards each time. Consistency will help your puppy understand what you expect.Practice Patience
Remember that puppies are learning and won’t master every command immediately. Stay patient, and celebrate their progress along the way.Seek Help if Needed
If you’re struggling with training or specific behavioral issues, consider enrolling in a puppy training class or consulting a professional dog trainer.
Training a puppy takes time, patience, and plenty of rewards, but it’s an essential part of raising a happy, well-adjusted dog. By teaching these foundational skills early on, you’ll set your puppy up for success and create a positive, trusting relationship that will last a lifetime. Enjoy the journey of training your new best friend!
