How to Train Your Puppy: Essential Tips for Early Success

 

Everyone dreams of having a well-behaved, happy, and sociable puppy — but achieving this takes time, patience, and the right approach to training. Starting early is key! In fact, training may have already begun before you bring your new furry friend home, with some basic obedience and toilet training. But now, the responsibility is yours.

Your puppy learns quickly, so it’s important to set expectations from day one. They won’t know how to behave unless you teach them, so consistent and positive reinforcement is essential.

Why Early Puppy Training is Crucial

Early training lays the foundation for your puppy’s future behavior and strengthens your bond. There are countless books and puppy-training courses available, and your vet can offer guidance or even run training classes. No matter which method you choose, there are a few golden rules to follow.

Positive Reinforcement: Good Boy/Girl!

Dogs learn by association. If your puppy does something good, reward them immediately — within a second or two — to reinforce the action.

Rewards can include:

• Treats: A small, tasty snack works wonders.

• Praise: Verbal encouragement like "Good boy/girl! in a cheerful tone.

• Playtime: A quick game can also serve as a great reward.

Keep each training session short — about two minutes — and aim for five or six sessions throughout the day. Practice in different environments (inside, outside, and on walks) to help your puppy generalize commands, but start in distraction-free areas for the best results.

Teaching Boundaries: Not So Good Boy/Girl

Puppies need to learn what they can and can’t do. For example, chewing is a natural exploratory behavior, but your puppy won’t automatically know what’s off-limits.

The key is to redirect and ignore unwanted behaviors without anger or punishment:

• Ignore: Don’t shout, smack, or glare. Simply withdraw attention.

• Redirect: If the behavior is dangerous (like chewing an electric cord), interrupt with a firm "No," capture their attention, and reward them when they stop.

The Power of the Word "No"

If there’s one command your puppy must learn, it’s "No." Use it for potentially dangerous or destructive behaviors:

• Firm and Calm: No need to shout — a low, assertive tone works best.

• Immediate Reward: Once the behavior stops, reward with praise or a treat to reinforce the positive response.

Stay Consistent and Patient

Puppies thrive on consistency, so make sure all family members follow the same training rules and commands. Training takes time, but with positive reinforcement and clear boundaries, your puppy will grow into a well-behaved and happy companion.