Bringing home a new puppy is exciting, chaotic, and occasionally tear-inducing (usually when you step in an unexpected “surprise” at 3 a.m.). But the big question on every new puppy owner’s mind is: When should I start training my puppy?
The short answer? Right now! The moment your puppy waddles into your life, their learning begins-whether you realize it or not. But don’t worry, we’ll break down exactly when and how to start, so you and your furry tornado can thrive together.
Puppy Training Timeline: When to Start & What to Teach
8-10 Weeks: “Wait…..You Expect Me to Listen?”
At this stage, your puppy is basically a tiny, fluffy sponge. They’re absorbing everything, even when it seems like they’re only focused on chewing your shoelaces.
What to Teach:
✅Name recognition (because calling “Fluffernutter” only works if they know they are Fluffernutter)
✅Potty training (unless you love surprise puddles)
✅Socialisation-introduce them to new people, sounds, and environments
✅Gentle handling-get them used to being touched (trust me, future-you will thank you when nail trimming time comes)
10-12 Weeks: “Ohhh, So I should listen to you?”
Your pup is testing boundaries like a toddler on a sugar rush. This is the golden age for foundational training and life skills stuff!
What to Teach:
✅Sit, Stay, Come (the holy trinity of puppy life skills)
✅Leash training (because dragging you through the park isn’t a sport)
✅No biting (puppy teeth are tiny daggers)
✅Crate training (a happy puppy in a crate = a well-rested human)
3-4 Months: “Look at Me, I’m a Teenager Now!”
Your pup is gaining confidence, and with that comes the “I’ll do what I want” attitude. Stay consistent and try not to lose hope 😂
What to Teach:
✅Leave it/Drop it (for those “oops, I stole your sock again” moments)
✅Short, fun training sessions (puppies have the attention span of a goldfish)
✅Reinforce good behaviour with rewards (praise, treats, or belly rubs work wonders)
5-6 Months:Rebellion Phase (Send Help)
At this stage, they’ll pretend they forgot everything you’ve taught them. But don’t be fooled-they’re just testing you.
What to Teach:
✅Practicing cues in different environments (because “sit” at home doesn’t always mean “sit” at the park)
✅Building on life skills (like loose-leash walking and polite greetings)
✅Impulse control (because not every moving object is a chew toy or a friend!
What Things Are Important to Teach a New Puppy?
Beyond the basics, here are a few life skills every pup should learn:
🐶Confidence:Expose them to new places and experiences carefully. A confident pup is a well-behaved pup!
🐶Handling Tolerance:Vet visits and grooming will be much easier if your pup is comfortable being touched.
🐶Independence:Teach them to be okay alone for short periods, so they don’t develop separation anxiety.
🐶Manners:Jumping on guests, barking at the mailman, or stealing food off the counter might seem cute now but future-you won’t be laughing.
Final Thoughts: Start Early, Stay Positive!
Training your puppy isn’t about perfection-it’s about building trust, communication, and a lifelong bond. Start early, be consistent, and most importantly, make it fun! After all, a well-trained pup isn’t just easier to live with; they’re also happier and more confident in the world around them.
Now go grab some treats, get to training, and remember-your puppy isn’t stubborn, they just think you need more practice!
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