Basic Puppy Training

🐶 Basic Puppy Training: Where to Start and How Not to Mess It Up

Hey friends! Today, let’s talk about how to start training your puppy the right way and build a strong relationship from day one. Because training isn’t about “commands” or “control” — it’s about trust, communication, and the joy of living together.

Why Early Training Matters

Puppies are like toddlers: they absorb everything quickly, easily adapt to routines, and... just as easily learn from their owner’s mistakes. What you teach your puppy in the first few months will stay with them for life — both the good and the bad.

Basic training is the foundation of a well-behaved, happy, and balanced dog. But don’t rush. Your puppy isn’t preparing for an obedience exam. The main goal is to understand each other and learn to live together peacefully.

Where to Begin?

🏡 1. Getting Used to the Home

The first thing your puppy should learn is where their space is, where the toilet area is, where the food bowl is, and who all these people are. Use routine: feed at the same times, go outside right after eating or sleeping, and reward desired behaviors.

Praise your puppy every time they go to the right place — this builds good habits.

🐾 2. Name Recognition and Recall

Your puppy needs to know their name. Say it gently and always pair it with something positive — food, a game, or praise. Within 3–5 days, most puppies start responding to their name confidently.

The “Come” command is one of the most important in a dog’s life. Start teaching it indoors: each time the puppy approaches you, say “Come” and reward them.

🎯 3. Basic Commands

At around 8–12 weeks old, you can start teaching basic commands:

• “Sit”

• “Come”

• “Place”

• “No” or “Leave it”

Train in a quiet environment, with short sessions (5–7 minutes) a few times a day. Training should feel like a fun game, not a boring task.

📢 4. Consistency is Key

If you allow your puppy to jump on people today and scold them for it tomorrow, they’ll be confused. Stick to the same rules every day — and make sure the whole family handles the puppy consistently.

💬 5. Praise More Than You Correct

Puppies learn best through positive reinforcement. When they behave correctly, reward them immediately. When they make a mistake, gently redirect. Yelling or punishment won’t help — it only damages trust.

What’s Next?

Later on, you’ll introduce leash training, socialization with other dogs, and building tolerance to distractions. But basic skills lay the groundwork for everything to come.

Most Importantly — Enjoy the Journey

Training your puppy is a journey full of joy, patience, and discovery. And trust me — seeing your puppy happily respond to your cues and look at you with love and trust is the best reward of all.