How to train a puppy with basic commands

Bringing home a wiggly, curious bundle of fur is pure joy, but let's be honest – it can also feel a bit overwhelming. Those sharp little teeth, the enthusiastic puddles, and the sudden sprints towards danger make one thing clear: basic training isn't just about tricks; it's essential for safety, sanity, and building a harmonious life together. The good news? Puppies are tiny sponges, eager to learn and connect with you. Starting with foundational commands like 'Sit', 'Stay', 'Come', and loose leash walking sets you both up for success, and doing it the modern, force-free way aligns perfectly with evolving animal welfare standards across Europe and North America.

Forget harsh corrections or outdated dominance theories. Effective puppy training today is built on positive reinforcement – the science-backed superstar method. This simply means rewarding the behaviour you want to see more of. Timing is everything: the reward (a tiny, tasty treat, enthusiastic praise, or a quick game) must happen the instant your pup performs the desired action. This creates a clear link in their mind: "Sit = delicious chicken!" Their natural desire to get that good thing makes them eager to repeat the behaviour. This approach isn't just kinder; it builds immense trust and enthusiasm for learning, fostering a bond based on cooperation, not fear. Crucially, methods relying on pain, fear, or intimidation (like shock collars, prong collars, or harsh physical corrections) are increasingly restricted or outright banned in many regions (like the UK, Germany, parts of Canada, and several US states) due to welfare concerns and potential fallout like increased anxiety or aggression. Choosing positive methods keeps you on the right side of both ethics and the law.

So, where to begin? Keep sessions incredibly short – think 2-5 minutes, several times a day. Puppy attention spans are brief! Start in a quiet, familiar room with minimal distractions. Lure them gently with a treat held near their nose, moving your hand slowly upwards and slightly back over their head. As their nose follows the treat, their bottom will naturally lower. The second it touches the floor, say "Yes!" or use a clicker (if you've introduced one), and immediately give the treat and praise. Repeat this patiently, gradually adding the verbal cue "Sit" just as they start moving into the position. Practice makes perfect, and soon you won't need the lure every time.

'Sit' is your gateway to 'Stay'. Once your pup can sit reliably for a few seconds, start adding duration. Ask for a 'Sit', show your open palm like a stop sign, say "Stay", take one small step back, then instantly step back in, reward them while they are still sitting, and release them with an "Okay!" or "Free!" Build distance and duration very, very gradually – one second and one step at a time. If they break, calmly reset without fuss; they're just learning. Never call them to you from a 'Stay' – always return to them to reward initially, to avoid confusing the 'Stay' with the 'Come' command.

Ah, 'Come' – arguably the most vital command for safety. Make this the most exciting game ever! Start indoors on a leash or long line in your yard. Get down on their level, use a happy, high-pitched voice, say "Puppy, Come!", gently encourage them towards you, and shower them with praise and high-value treats the moment they move your way. Never, ever call them for something unpleasant (like ending playtime or bath time) at this stage. You want them to associate 'Come' with pure joy and fantastic rewards. This reliable recall takes time and consistent positive association, especially as they get braver exploring the world.

Finally, teaching polite leash walking starts young. Forget pulling matches! Instead, reward your pup heavily when they walk with you, even for just a step or two with a slack leash. If they pull, simply stop walking and become a boring tree. Wait until the leash loosens (even if they just glance back or take a step towards you), mark that moment ("Yes!"), reward, and start walking again. It requires immense patience initially, but it teaches them that pulling gets them nowhere, while walking nicely gets them forward and treats. Remember, many cities and public spaces have leash laws, so mastering this is key for enjoyable, compliant walks.

Training your puppy is a journey of patience, consistency, and celebrating small wins. Focus on building a positive, trusting relationship through reward-based methods. Keep it fun, keep it short, and manage your expectations – they're babies! By laying this compassionate foundation, grounded in modern, science-supported techniques that respect animal welfare expectations, you're not just teaching commands; you're nurturing a confident, well-adjusted canine companion for life. The investment in positive, force-free training now pays off a thousandfold in the years of joyful companionship ahead. Remember, the goal is a happy dog who wants to listen, not one who obeys out of fear.