Training your puppy is one of the most rewarding investments you can make in your dog’s long-term health, happiness, and safety.
Early training builds trust, prevents unwanted behaviors, and strengthens the bond between you and your pup.
Maple Grove Pet Hospital partners with you to provide personalized guidance on your puppy’s health and behavioral development, helping you raise a well-adjusted, confident companion.
If you’re ready to set your puppy up for success, now is the perfect time to schedule a puppy wellness visit and start building good habits from the very beginning.
When to Start Training a Puppy
Puppies are fast learners, and training can begin as soon as your doctor feels it is safe to begin training.
At this stage, their brains are developing quickly, and short, positive training sessions can make a big impact.
- Start early: Simple commands and routines help puppies understand expectations.
- Keep it positive: Use treats, praise, and play to create a rewarding experience.
- Never too late: Older puppies and even adult dogs can still learn new skills with patience and consistency.
How to Start Training a Puppy
The best way to start is with short, focused training sessions lasting 5–10 minutes. Puppies learn best when training feels fun and interactive.
- Begin with simple commands like “sit” and “come.”
- Use positive reinforcement and reward good behavior with treats, praise, or a favorite toy.
- Start in quiet, low-distraction spaces before practicing in busier environments.
- Build up gradually, adding new commands as your puppy masters the basics.
For personalized tips, you can schedule a puppy exam at Maple Grove Pet Hospital to get recommendations tailored to your pup’s personality and needs.
Essential Commands Every Puppy Should Know
Sit
The foundation of good manners, “sit,” teaches your puppy to focus and wait patiently. Use it before meals, playtime, or going outdoors.
Stay
“Stay” is vital for keeping your puppy safe in high-risk situations, like near doors or busy streets. Start with short intervals and reward success.
Come (Recall)
A strong recall could save your dog’s life. Begin practicing on a leash in quiet areas and make returning to you a rewarding experience.
Down
Teaching “down” promotes calmness and impulse control. Using a consistent spot, like a mat or rug, can help puppies learn faster.
Leave It
“Leave it” protects your puppy from dangerous items or foods. Always reward them for ignoring the temptation.
Heel / Loose Leash Walking
Good leash manners make walks safer and more enjoyable. Reward your puppy for walking calmly at your side without pulling.
Crate Training a Puppy
Crate training helps create a safe, den-like space for your puppy and offers several benefits:
- Aids in potty training
- Prevents destructive behavior
- Provides comfort and security
Introduce the crate gradually, using treats and short sessions to make it a positive experience. Never force your puppy inside or use the crate as punishment.
Potty Training a Puppy
Consistency is the key to successful potty training.
- Take your puppy out first thing in the morning and after meals, naps, and playtime.
- Offer praise and rewards immediately after successful potty breaks.
- Avoid punishment. Instead, focus on positive reinforcement and proper clean-up to prevent repeat accidents.
How Long Does Potty Training a Puppy Take?
Most puppies take several weeks to a few months to fully potty train, depending on age, breed, and consistency. Setbacks are normal, so patience is essential.
You can typically begin potty training your puppy when they are 7-8 weeks old.
Beyond the Basics: Advanced Training Goals
Once your puppy has mastered the essentials, you can add commands like:
- “Drop it” — prevents chewing or swallowing unsafe items.
- “Wait” — teaches patience at doors, during meals, or before crossing streets.
- “Go to bed” — helps your puppy settle on command.
Advanced training can also include enrichment activities like agility, trick training, or therapy work, strengthening the bond between you and your dog.
Tips for Successful Puppy Training
Use Positive Reinforcement
Rewarding your puppy with treats, toys, or praise encourages good behavior and builds lasting trust.
Keep Sessions Short and Fun
To keep your puppy engaged and focused, training sessions should be 5–10 minutes long, two to three times daily.
Be Consistent
Using the same commands and rules across the household helps your puppy learn faster and avoid confusion.
Socialization as Part of Training
Introduce your puppy to new people, pets, sounds, and environments gradually to build confidence and prevent fear later in life.
Common Puppy Training Mistakes to Avoid
- Yelling or punishing, which can delay learning and damage trust.
- Allowing inconsistent rules from different family members, which confuses puppies.
- Expecting too much too soon. Patience is key to long-term success.
How Maple Grove Pet Hospital Can Help
At Maple Grove Pet Hospital, we believe training and wellness go hand-in-hand. During your puppy’s wellness visits, our veterinary team can:
- Provide personalized advice on behavior and training
- Recommend trusted local trainers and puppy classes
- Support your puppy’s health and behavioral development
Start your puppy off on the right paw. Schedule their first exam today, and let’s work together to prepare your pet for a happy, healthy future.