Puppies are adorable bundles full of energy, curiosity, and a large dose of mischief. The secret to surviving those first months? Starting training early. It gives them the solid foundation they need to become a happy, relaxed, and well-behaved family member. 

This guide, written by our vets, walks you through those important steps, from the first essential "sit" commands to establishing the good habits that shape a wonderful temperament. 

Why early training is really important

The first few months are a key time for learning. Early training helps your puppy:

• Learn what’s okay and what’s not (like chewing the sofa!)

• Feel confident when facing new situations and people

• Avoid the behaviour problems that can crop up down the line

Short, fun, and consistent sessions are absolutely key here. Forget hour-long drills and aim for just 5 to 10 minutes, multiple times a day. Puppies love routine, gentle guidance, and positive reinforcement.

Puppy milestones by age

Knowing what to expect at each stage makes training and socialisation a lot smoother.

8–12 weeks: Your puppy is like a sponge, soaking up the world around them. Focus on gentle socialisation, getting them comfortable with handling, starting toilet training, and introducing simple cues like sit or come in short, fun sessions.

3–6 months: This is the curious, high-energy phase. Continue socialising and start adding a bit more structure, like short obedience sessions, clear guidance, and consistent routines. 

6–12 months: Welcome to the teenage stage! Your pup might start testing limits, or they'll forget what they've learned. Just stay patient and reinforce good manners and positive habits. 

Crate training

A crate can become your puppy’s safe space and also helps with house training. Most puppies settle into crate training within a few days, though some take a little longer.

Tips:

• Make it cosy: their favourite blanket, a toy or two—whatever helps them feel safe.

• Some owners also like to use pheromone diffusers to help their puppy settle.

• Encourage voluntary crate use with treats and praise.

• Never use the crate for punishment.

• Start with short periods, and gradually increase the time.

Toilet training

With patience and consistency, your puppy will learn where and when it’s okay to go.

• Take your puppy outside frequently, especially after meals, naps, and play

• Stay with them to build confidence

• Immediately praise and reward successful toilet breaks

• Watch for those unmistakable signs, like sniffing, circling, the 'I need to go!' dance, and rush them outside

• Clean accidents thoroughly and avoid punishment

Teaching basic commands

Short, positive, and consistent sessions help your puppy learn their first essential commands. Reward them immediately with praise, a cuddle, a favourite toy, or a tasty treat so they know exactly what they did right. 

Start with sit, stay, and come, keeping sessions fun and never punishing mistakes. You notice your puppy pauses to think before they get it right. That’s normal.

Tip: Watch treat portions! Too many can lead to weight gain or put stress on growing joints. Stick to vet-approved snacks and definitely avoid toxic foods like chocolate or grapes.

Collar and lead training

Getting your puppy used to a collar, harness, and lead is important for safe and enjoyable walks for the whole family.

Step 1: Start indoors with a lightweight collar for short periods. Make sure it fits comfortably—the general rule of thumb is two fingers between the collar and neck. Some shaking or scratching is normal. Reward calm behaviour with praise or a small treat.

Step 2: Attach a lightweight lead and let your puppy drag it around under supervision. Encourage them to follow you and reward them with treats, toys, or praise. Remember to keep sessions short.

Step 3: Train a 'heel' command with a tasty treat to encourage them to walk by your side. Practice at home and in the garden with fewer distractions first. Use gentle guidance; never tug or pull them. If your puppy pulls, stop and encourage them back to your side. Reward polite walking with treats, toys, or verbal praise.

Managing nipping and biting

Puppies explore the world with their mouths. Gentle, consistent guidance helps them learn what’s okay to chew.

• Keep a toy nearby during play. When those tiny, sharp teeth latch onto your hand (because they definitely will!), immediately redirect them toward the toy. 

• Say a calm but firm “ouch” or stop play briefly if your puppy bites.

• Don’t use your hands or feet as toys, even in play, so your puppy doesn’t get mixed messages.

• Everyone in the household should respond the same way so your puppy learns faster.

Introducing puppies to other pets and kids

Early socialisation helps puppies feel comfortable around others:

• Introduce pets slowly and always under supervision

• Help kids learn to be gentle and to respect when your puppy wants a bit of space

When to seek professional help

Every puppy is unique. Professional behaviourists or veterinarians can address behaviour concerns, health issues, or specific training challenges. Early guidance can save frustration and help your puppy thrive.

Puppy Q&A

Q: My puppy keeps jumping on people. How do I stop it?
A: Puppies often jump to greet or get attention. To stop it, turn away and ignore them when they jump, rewarding attention only when all four paws are on the ground. You can also use treats, praise, or cuddles to reinforce calm greetings. 

Q: Can my puppy be around kids and other pets? 
A: Yes! Introduce them slowly, supervise interactions, and reward calm behaviour. Teaching gentle handling to children is important.

Tips for success

• Be consistent: Puppies thrive on routine and clear rules. But don’t worry if a day goes off-plan. Puppies have unpredictable moments.

• Use positive reinforcement: Praise, treats, and affection work really well.

• Keep training short and fun: Multiple 5–10 minute sessions a day are more effective than one long session.

• Socialise early: Gradually introduce your puppy to people, pets, and new environments to build their confidence.

• Sleep is important: Make sure your puppy is getting enough sleep. Tired puppies can become overstimulated and harder to train.

• Redirect unwanted behaviour: Teach calm, controlled alternatives early on to prevent habits like jumping or mouthing from becoming bigger issues, especially in larger breeds.

• Professional help: If you’re struggling with something specific, a vet or behaviourist can give you personalised guidance.

Join us next month as we explore common puppy health conditions, including what to look out for and how to keep your pup happy and healthy.