Bringing home a new puppy is an exciting adventure filled with cuddles, joy, and—let’s be honest—a fair share of challenges. As a new dog owner, you might feel overwhelmed by the task of training your furry friend. But don’t worry! This week-by-week guide will walk you through everything you need to know to set your puppy up for success.

Introduction: Your Puppy Training Journey Begins

Training isn’t just about teaching commands—it’s about building a lifelong bond with your new companion. The first few weeks are crucial in establishing communication, trust, and good habits that will last a lifetime. Whether you’re a first-time dog owner or adding a new family member, this guide will be your roadmap to raising a well-adjusted, happy puppy.

Pre-Training Preparation: Setting the Stage for Success

Before your puppy even arrives home, preparation is key. Start by puppy-proofing your living space:

  • Remove small objects that could be swallowed
  • Secure electrical cords
  • Create a designated puppy area
  • Purchase essential supplies like a crate, bed, food and water bowls, collar, leash, and plenty of toys

Pro tip: Think of your home from a puppy’s perspective. Get down to their level and look for potential hazards or tempting chew targets.

Week 1: Settling In and Building Foundations

First Days at Home

The first week is all about creating a sense of security and routine. Your puppy is leaving everything familiar behind, so patience is crucial. Establish a consistent schedule for:

  • Feeding
  • Potty breaks
  • Sleeping
  • Playtime

Housebreaking Basics

Housetraining is your first major challenge. Key strategies include:

  • Take your puppy outside every 1-2 hours
  • Always go to the same spot outside
  • Use a consistent command like “Go potty”
  • Reward immediately with treats and praise
  • Watch for signs like sniffing, circling, or whining

Crate training can be a game-changer. Make the crate a positive space with comfortable bedding and occasional treats.

Week 2: Building Basic Obedience

Essential First Commands

Start with simple commands that create a foundation for future training:

  1. Sit: Hold a treat above your puppy’s nose, slowly move it back. As their head tilts up, their bottom will naturally lower.
  2. Stay: Begin with very short durations, gradually increasing time and distance
  3. Come: Use an excited, welcoming tone and always reward when they respond

Socialization Begins

Expose your puppy to various people, sounds, and gentle experiences. The goal is to create positive associations:

  • Invite calm friends to meet your puppy
  • Introduce different sounds (vacuum, doorbell)
  • Use treats to create positive experiences
  • Keep interactions short and positive

Week 3: Advanced Basic Training

Leash Training

Many puppies find leashes confusing at first. Make it fun:

  • Start indoors with short sessions
  • Use treats to encourage walking beside you
  • Keep initial walks short and positive
  • Practice in low-distraction environments

Bite Inhibition

Puppies explore the world with their mouths. Teach gentle play:

  • Yelp or say “Ouch” when biting gets too hard
  • Immediately stop play if biting continues
  • Provide appropriate chew toys
  • Never use your hands as toys

Week 4: Expanding Training and Socialization

Command Refinement

Now’s the time to add complexity:

  • Practice commands with mild distractions
  • Use both verbal and hand signals
  • Keep training sessions short (5-10 minutes)
  • Always end on a positive note

Controlled Socialization

Carefully introduce your puppy to:

  • Other vaccinated dogs
  • Different environments
  • Various people
  • New sounds and experiences

Weeks 5-6: Intermediate Training

Advanced Commands

Build on earlier lessons:

  • “Down” command
  • “Leave it” technique
  • Improved recall
  • Basic impulse control

Behavioral Management

Address common puppy behaviors:

  • Gentle correction for jumping
  • Quiet commands for excessive barking
  • Consistent crate training
  • Teaching alone-time skills

Troubleshooting Common Challenges

Every puppy is unique, and you’ll face challenges. Remember:

  • Stay patient
  • Be consistent
  • Use positive reinforcement
  • Don’t punish—redirect
  • Seek professional help if needed

Conclusion: Your Lifelong Learning Journey

Training isn’t a destination—it’s a journey. Celebrate small wins, stay patient, and enjoy the process of bonding with your new best friend.