Bringing home a new puppy is exciting, but it also comes with a big responsibility: puppy training. The first few months are crucial in shaping your puppy’s behaviour, habits, and confidence.
If you’re wondering how to train a puppy, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from toilet training to basic commands and common mistakes to avoid.
When Should You Start Puppy Training?
The best time to start puppy training is as early as 8 weeks old.
At this stage, puppies are:
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Highly impressionable
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Curious and eager to learn
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Able to start basic training
Early training helps prevent unwanted behaviours before they become habits.
The First 3 Things to Teach Your Puppy
1. Toilet Training
Toilet training should be your top priority.
Tips:
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Take your puppy out every 2–3 hours
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Reward immediately after they go
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Stick to a consistent routine
Accidents are normal — consistency is key.
2. Name Recognition
Teach your puppy to respond to their name early.
How:
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Say their name in a positive tone
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Reward when they look at you
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Keep sessions short and fun
3. Basic Commands
Start with simple commands:
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Sit
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Come
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Stay
These form the foundation for more advanced training.
Best Puppy Training Method: Positive Reinforcement
The most effective way to train a puppy is through positive reinforcement.
This means rewarding good behaviour with:
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Treats
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Praise
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Toys
Avoid punishment-based training, as it can create fear and confusion.
Using the Right Training Treats
Treats are one of the most powerful tools in puppy training — but quality matters.
BOBs Freeze-Dried Meatballs are a great option because they are:
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High-value and motivating for puppies
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Easy to break into small pieces
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Made with real meat protein
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Convenient for training sessions on the go
💡 Tip: Use tiny portions to reward frequently without overfeeding.
Puppy Training Schedule (Simple Daily Routine)
Consistency is everything. Here’s a basic structure:
Morning
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Toilet break
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Short training session (5–10 mins)
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Breakfast
Midday
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Playtime + socialisation
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Toilet break
Evening
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Training session
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Dinner
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Calm wind-down time
Short, frequent sessions work best for puppies.
Socialisation: A Critical Step
Socialisation is just as important as obedience training.
Expose your puppy safely to:
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Different people
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Other vaccinated dogs
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Sounds and environments
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Car rides
This helps prevent fear and anxiety later in life.
Common Puppy Training Mistakes
❌ Being Inconsistent
Changing rules confuses your puppy.
❌ Training Too Long
Puppies have short attention spans, keep sessions brief.
❌ Ignoring Good Behaviour
Reward calm and positive behaviour, not just commands.
❌ Expecting Too Much Too Soon
Training takes time, progress is gradual.
How Long Does Puppy Training Take?
Basic training can take a few weeks, but full behavioural development takes months.
Most puppies:
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Learn basic commands within 2–4 weeks
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Continue developing habits over their first year
Consistency matters more than speed.
The Role of Nutrition in Puppy Training
A well-fed puppy is easier to train.
Balanced nutrition supports:
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Brain development
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Energy levels
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Focus and learning ability
Feeding high-quality meals alongside proper training sets your puppy up for long-term success.
Puppy training doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With patience, consistency, and the right approach, you can raise a well-behaved, confident dog.
Start early, keep things positive, and celebrate small wins, they all add up.
Because every well-trained dog starts with a well-trained puppy 🐾
