Puppy Training Guide
According to veterinarians and trainers, puppy training can start at 7-8 weeks when a puppy can learn basic commands like “sit,” “come,” “wait.” Before training starts, veterinarians recommend all vaccines are made. At a young age the bone structure is not fully developed, so you need to be careful with training tasks to avoid injury.
Socialization and Basic Training
At 3 weeks, start socialization with household animals and people of different ages so they become confident around other species. The period when you should socialize your puppy has both formal and informal training. Socializing means introducing them to new people, animals and sensations so they become well-adjusted.
House and Obedience Training
You should start house training around 3 months when muscles have developed for going to the toilet. Take your puppy out first thing in the morning, after eating and after naps. Reward them for going outside. Learn signals indicating they need to relieve themselves. Remember puppies should not mix with other dogs until vaccinations are complete.
Early Training Methods
The best age to start training is as soon as possible, around 8 weeks when puppies move to permanent homes. Early training is important for teaching manners and well-being. At home, start leash training by slipping on a collar when puppy is playing or relaxed. Take short “walks” inside or in the yard to teach walking with you, not against you. Pair with obedience training to minimize straining or yanking on leash.
FAQs on Puppy Training
What is the first thing you should train your puppy?
Start training your puppy as soon as you bring them home, typically about 8 weeks old. At this age, they can learn basic cues like sit, stay, and come. Use positive reinforcement by rewarding behaviors you want to encourage. Unless interacting closely, pup should be crated, penned or leashed. Giving too much house freedom too soon allows bad habits.
What is the best age to start training a puppy?
When it comes to determining the best age to start training a puppy, the answer from experienced trainers is unanimous: start as early as possible. Most trainers recommend beginning training when the puppy is between 8 and 12 weeks old. According to these experts, the earlier you start training, the easier it will be for your pup to learn good behaviors and habits.
The most challenging time of raising a puppy is the adolescent period when they seem to forget everything they have been taught. This period is individual to each dog, but it may begin when they’re about eight months old and continue until they’re two years old.