Essential skills every puppy should learn
The first few weeks of a puppy’s life present golden opportunity for training. Between 3 and 14-16 weeks old, puppies experience a critical learning window when they absorb information rapidly and form lasting habits.
New owners who make the most of this period can set their furry companions up for a lifetime of success. It is never too early to start their education!
Remember - puppies learn constantly, not just during formal training sessions. If you don’t actively teach them desired behaviours, they’ll learn from their environment—and those lessons might not align with your household rules.
Keep training sessions brief and enjoyable, and don’t worry about using traditional cues. Whether you say ‘come’ or ‘banana’, it doesn’t matter to the pup.
Skills to prioritise in the early days
Marker training
Establish a marker word like ‘yes’ or use a clicker to communicate the exact moment your puppy performs correctly. Follow the marker immediately with a treat or praise. This precise timing helps puppies understand which behaviour earned the reward, accelerating their learning process.
Check-in training
Teach your puppy totouch your hand with their nose, eventually progressing to simply making eye contact on cue. This “check-in” behaviour encourages your puppy to look to you for guidance rather than charging towards every distraction. It builds the foundation for reliable off-leash behaviour and strengthens your bond.
Crate comfort
Even if you don’t plan to crate your adult dog regularly, crate training remains invaluable for future veterinary visits, travel, or recovery from injuries. Crates can also be very helpful to ensure your dog has a safe space away from children if needed.
Make the crate inviting with comfortable bedding, toys, and meals served inside. Ensure adequate space for your puppy to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably. Begin with the door open, gradually introducing short periods of closure once your puppy views the crate as their safe haven.
Settling skills
Create a designated relaxation spot equipped with a comfortable bed and engaging items like puzzle toys or long-lasting chews. After exciting activities— walks, playtime, or stimulating events—guide your puppy to this space. This practice teaches them to downshift from high energy to calm relaxation, a crucial life skill that prevents over excitement and promotes better rest.
The recall cue
Teaching your puppy to come when called is most effective before 14 weeks of age, when puppies naturally want to stay close to their families. Practice during feeding time by calling your puppy before placing their bowl down, then shower them with praise for responding. This positive association, with both food and praise, makes recall training feel like a game rather than a chore.
These fundamental skills create a framework for more advanced training while fostering a harmonious relationship between you and your new family member. Start early, stay consistent, and remember that patience and positive reinforcement yield the best results!