Puppy Training 101: What Every New Dog Owner Needs to Know

Bringing a new puppy home is an exciting and rewarding experience, but can also feel overwhelming. Puppies are full of energy, curiosity, and mischief, which means proper training and socialization are essential for a happy, well-behaved companion. Whether you’re a first-time dog parent or just need a refresher, this guide will cover the fundamentals of puppy training to set you and your pup up for success.

1. Start with the Basics

Training should begin the moment you bring your puppy home. Puppies are like sponges—they absorb everything around them, cataloging experiences that shape their behavior. Early training lays the foundation for good habits that will last a lifetime. Focus on the following basics:

House Training

• Create a consistent potty schedule (e.g., after meals, naps, and playtime).

• Take your puppy to the same spot outside to reinforce good habits.

• Reward successes with praise and treats.

• Supervise closely indoors to prevent accidents, and use a crate when needed.

Crate Training

• Choose an appropriately sized crate—big enough for your puppy to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably.

• Make the crate a positive space with comfy bedding and treats.

  • BONUS TIP: Providing your dog with an enrichment toy like a Kong, Toppl, or Lick Mat can help create a positive association with their crate. The tasty treat will keep them engaged, and since licking is a natural self-soothing behavior, it can also help them relax and settle more easily.

• Never use the crate as punishment.

• Gradually increase crate time to help your puppy feel secure when alone.

• Play crate games with your dog! Learn more about crate games HERE.

2. Teaching Basic Cues

Teaching your puppy basic cues is an essential part of building clear communication and strengthening your bond. By introducing simple cues early on, you’re setting the foundation for a lifetime of understanding and teamwork.

Start with these fundamental cues:

• Name Recognition – Teaching your puppy to respond to their name helps capture their attention and is the first step in effective communication. Say their name in a happy tone, and reward them when they look at you.

• Sit – This is an easy skill to teach since dogs naturally offer this behavior frequently. By rewarding your puppy when they sit on their own, you can quickly attach the verbal cue and encourage polite behavior in various situations.

• Hand Targets – Teaching your puppy to touch their nose to your hand (often called "hand targeting") is a great way to guide them without physical force. It can be used for recall, redirecting their attention, or building confidence.

By practicing these cues in short, fun training sessions, you’ll create a strong foundation for more advanced skills while building a strong relationship with your puppy.

3. Socialization is Key

Proper socialization helps your puppy grow into a confident and well-adjusted dog. Introduce them to different:

• People of all ages and appearances.

• Other friendly dogs and animals.

• Environments (parks, sidewalks, car rides).

• Sounds (vacuum cleaners, sirens, doorbells).

Make sure each experience is positive, rewarding your puppy for calm behavior.

Check out our blog post ESSENTIAL PUPPY SOCIALIZATION TIPS: A GUIDE FOR NEW DOG PARENTS for more socialization tips and tricks!

4. Handling Common Puppy Behaviors

Chewing

• Puppies explore the world with their mouths, so it's essential to provide them with plenty of appropriate chew toys to satisfy their natural urge to chew. Options like Nylabones, Benebones, teething sticks, or other safe chews can help redirect their chewing away from furniture and shoes. Always supervise your puppy while they’re chewing to ensure their safety and prevent them from ingesting anything harmful.

  • BONUS TIP: When puppies are teething, they often find relief with freezeable teething toys. You can fill them with water and freeze them to provide a soothing, cooling sensation that helps ease sore gums.

• If your puppy bites or chews on something inappropriate, redirect them to an approved toy.

• Never punish a puppy for chewing on something they shouldn't—remember, they’re not being naughty; they’re just learning!

Jumping

• Ignore jumping and reward calm greetings with pets, praise, or treats.

• Ask visitors to wait until your puppy has all four paws on the ground before saying hello.

5. Be Patient and Consistent

Training takes time, and puppies learn best with consistency and positive reinforcement. Use rewards like treats, praise, and play to encourage good behavior. Avoid punishment-based training, which can create fear, anxiety, and confusion.

6. Consider Professional Help

If you’re struggling with training, don’t hesitate to seek help from a professional dog trainer.

Raising a well-mannered puppy requires patience, consistency, and a lot of love. By starting training early, focusing on socialization, and using positive reinforcement, you’ll set your puppy up for a lifetime of success. Enjoy the journey—puppyhood goes by fast!

Need personalized training advice? Learn more about our Puppy Programs or sign up for a FREE consultation today!