When Should My Puppy Start Obedience Training?

When it comes to obedience training for your puppy, timing is crucial. Ideally, you should begin training as soon as you bring your new furry friend home, which is typically around eight weeks of age. At this early stage, puppies are like sponges, eager to learn and absorb information from their environment. Starting early helps establish good habits and reinforces the bond between you and your puppy.

During the first few months, focus on basic commands such as sit, stay, come, and down. Keep training sessions short—around five to ten minutes—to maintain your puppy's attention span. Positive reinforcement techniques, such as treats and praise, are highly effective during this formative period.

As your puppy grows older—around four to six months—you can gradually introduce more advanced training techniques and socialization opportunities with other dogs and people. This is also a critical time for addressing any behavioral issues that may arise.

In summary, starting obedience training early sets the foundation for a well-behaved dog while fostering a strong relationship built on trust and communication.