Sit, Stay, Success: Puppy Training 101 - Basic Commands and Housebreaking Tips

Bringing a new puppy into your home is an exciting and joyful experience. However, it also comes with the responsibility of training your furry friend to ensure they grow into a well-behaved and happy dog. Starting with basic commands and housebreaking is essential for creating a strong foundation for more advanced training. Here’s your guide to Puppy Training 101, covering essential commands and effective housebreaking tips.

Basic Commands Every Puppy Should Learn

1. Sit

• How to Teach: Hold a treat close to your puppy’s nose, then move your hand up, allowing their head to follow the treat while their bottom lowers. Once they’re in a sitting position, say “Sit,” give them the treat, and offer praise.

• Why It’s Important: “Sit” is a foundational command that can help manage your puppy’s behavior in various situations, like before mealtime or when greeting visitors.

2. Stay

• How to Teach: Ask your puppy to “Sit.” Open your palm in front of them and say “Stay.” Take a few steps back, and if they stay, reward them with a treat and praise. Gradually increase the distance and duration.

• Why It’s Important: “Stay” helps keep your puppy safe in potentially dangerous situations and encourages patience.

3. Come

• How to Teach: Put a leash on your puppy and let them wander a short distance. Gently tug on the leash and say “Come.” When they come to you, reward them with a treat and praise. Practice in a safe, enclosed area.

• Why It’s Important: “Come” is crucial for ensuring your puppy returns to you in outdoor and potentially hazardous situations.

4. Down

• How to Teach: Hold a treat in your hand, palm down. Move your hand to the floor, guiding your puppy’s nose down. Once they’re in the lying-down position, say “Down,” give the treat, and offer praise.

• Why It’s Important: “Down” is useful for calming your puppy and keeping them settled in one spot.

5. Leave It

• How to Teach: Show your puppy a treat in your closed hand and say “Leave it.” When they stop trying to get the treat and look away, reward them with a different treat from your other hand.

• Why It’s Important: “Leave it” can prevent your puppy from picking up dangerous or unwanted items.

Housebreaking Tips for a Well-Behaved Puppy

1. Establish a Routine

• Regular Schedule: Take your puppy outside at the same times each day, such as after waking up, eating, and playing.

• Consistency: Consistent routines help your puppy learn when and where they should go to the bathroom.

2. Choose a Bathroom Spot

• Designated Area: Select a specific spot outside for your puppy to use as their bathroom. The familiar scent will encourage them to go there.

• Praise and Reward: Immediately praise and reward your puppy with a treat after they go in the designated spot.

3. Supervise Indoors

• Close Monitoring: Keep a close eye on your puppy indoors to catch signs that they need to go, such as sniffing or circling.

• Use a Leash: When you’re not actively supervising, keep your puppy on a leash near you to prevent accidents.

4. Crate Training

• Comfortable Space: Use a crate that’s just large enough for your puppy to stand, turn around, and lie down. Dogs are less likely to soil their sleeping area.

• Gradual Introduction: Introduce the crate gradually, making it a positive and comfortable space with toys and treats.

5. Handle Accidents Calmly

• No Punishment: If you catch your puppy in the act, clap loudly to interrupt them, then take them outside immediately. Avoid punishment, as it can cause fear and confusion.

• Clean Thoroughly: Clean any indoor accidents with an enzymatic cleaner to remove all traces of scent and prevent repeat accidents.

6. Patience and Persistence

• Be Patient: Housebreaking takes time and patience. Stay consistent with your routine and positive reinforcement.

• Celebrate Progress: Celebrate your puppy’s successes, no matter how small, to encourage continued good behavior.

Training your puppy with basic commands and housebreaking them effectively sets the stage for a well-behaved and happy dog. By establishing a routine, using positive reinforcement, and practicing patience, you’ll build a strong foundation for your puppy’s future training. Enjoy the process of teaching and bonding with your new furry friend, and celebrate each milestone along the way. Happy training!​