Bringing a new puppy home is an exciting adventure, but it also comes with the responsibility of proper training. Early training and socialization are crucial for a puppy’s development.
Studies have found that dogs who attend puppy classes are more trainable and less likely to develop certain behavior problems later in life.1
The first two years are critical for shaping a dog’s behavior and habits. While the specific commands and skills taught may vary, focusing on key lessons during this formative period can set your pup up for a lifetime of good manners and happy companionship.
Here are 10 foundational lessons every puppy should master before their second birthday.
1. Come When Called
Teaching your puppy to come when called is arguably the most critical command they’ll ever learn. This skill can keep them safe in potentially dangerous situations and allows for off-leash freedom in appropriate areas.
Start by using your puppy’s name and the command “come” in a cheerful tone. Reward them generously with treats and praise when they respond.
Practice this in different environments with increasing distractions as your pup improves. Consistency and positive reinforcement are key to mastering this essential skill.
2. Sit & Stay
The “sit” and “stay” commands are fundamental building blocks of obedience training. These skills help your puppy learn impulse control and can be used in various everyday situations.
Begin by luring your puppy into a sitting position with a treat, then introduce the verbal cue. Once they’ve mastered “sit,” gradually increase the duration before rewarding to teach “stay.”
Practice these commands in different locations and with various distractions to reinforce the behavior.
3. Proper Leash Manners
Teaching your puppy to walk politely on a leash is crucial for enjoyable outings and your own physical well-being. Loose-leash walking prevents pulling and makes walks more pleasant for both you and your dog.
Start training in a low-distraction environment, rewarding your puppy for walking beside you without tension on the leash. Gradually increase the difficulty by practicing in more stimulating settings.
Consistency is key – never allow pulling to be rewarded by forward movement.
4. Crate Training
Crate training provides your puppy with a safe, comfortable space of their own. It’s an invaluable tool for housebreaking and can help prevent destructive behavior when you’re not able to supervise.
Introduce the crate gradually, making it a positive experience with treats and toys. Never use it as punishment. Start with short periods and slowly increase the duration.
A properly crate-trained puppy will view their crate as a cozy den rather than confinement.
5. Basic Grooming Acceptance
Getting your puppy comfortable with grooming procedures early on will make future care much easier. This includes handling paws, ears, and teeth, as well as brushing and bathing.
Begin with short, positive sessions, offering treats and praise. Gradually increase the duration and intensity of handling.
Regular practice will help your puppy associate grooming with positive experiences, making vet visits and necessary care less stressful.
6. Leave It & Drop It
“Leave it” and “drop it” are crucial commands for your puppy’s safety. These skills can prevent them from picking up or eating potentially harmful objects.
Start by teaching “leave it” with treats in a closed fist, rewarding your puppy for ignoring the treat. For “drop it,” offer a high-value treat in exchange for releasing an object.
Practice these commands regularly with various items to reinforce the behavior in different scenarios.
7. Socialization
Proper socialization is vital for raising a well-adjusted, confident dog. Expose your puppy to a variety of people, animals, and environments during their critical socialization period (typically up to 16 weeks old).
Arrange positive interactions with different types of people, dogs, and situations. Puppy classes can be an excellent controlled environment for socialization.
Always ensure experiences are positive and not overwhelming for your pup.
8. Housetraining
Establishing good bathroom habits is essential for harmonious cohabitation. Consistent housetraining will prevent accidents and build trust between you and your puppy.
Create a regular schedule for feeding and potty breaks. Reward your puppy lavishly for eliminating in the appropriate spot.
Be patient and consistent. Accidents will happen but never punish your puppy for them. Clean thoroughly to remove odors that might encourage repeat incidents.
9. Handling & Touch Tolerance
Teaching your puppy to accept handling is crucial for grooming, vet visits, and everyday care. This includes touching paws, ears, mouth, and tail.
Start with gentle, brief touches, rewarding your puppy for calm acceptance. Gradually increase the duration and intensity of handling.
Make these sessions positive and fun, associating touch with treats and praise.
10. Impulse Control
Impulse control is a vital skill that underlies many aspects of good behavior. It helps prevent jumping, excessive barking, and other undesirable behaviors.
Teach your puppy to wait for food, toys, and attention. Use commands like “wait” before meals or when exiting doors. Practice having your puppy sit and stay while you place a toy on the ground, only releasing them to get it on command.
These exercises build self-control and reinforce your role as a leader.
Training your puppy during their first two years is a rewarding investment in your future together. By mastering these ten essential lessons, you’ll lay a strong foundation for a well-behaved, confident, and happy adult dog.
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Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.