The first few months with your puppy are critical for establishing obedience, structure, and leadership. At Elite K9 Service, we believe in a balanced training approach that rewards good behavior while correcting unwanted actions. Follow these steps to set your puppy up for success.
1. Establish Leadership from Day One
Your puppy must see you as the leader. Control their resources (food, toys, attention), prevent free roaming, and always have them work for rewards. Keep energy calm and assertive—no babying or letting them run the household.
2. Name Recognition & Engagement
Call your puppy’s name in a neutral tone. The moment they look at you, reward them with praise or a treat. If they ignore you, make a noise or gently guide their attention. Never use their name for scolding.
3. Housebreaking & Crate Training
Take your puppy out every 2-3 hours and after meals, play, or naps. Use a designated potty spot and reward immediately for success. If an accident happens, correct only if caught in the act.
For crate training, ensure the crate is appropriately sized, never used for punishment, and ignore whining.
4. Leash Training & ‘Heel’ Command
Start leash training immediately. Use a slip lead or properly fitted prong collar to prevent pulling. Walk with your puppy at your left side and correct any pulling with a quick leash pop. Reward calm walking and change direction if they forge ahead.
5. Teach Basic Commands
Start with:
✔️ Sit – Lure with a treat, reward when their butt touches the ground.
✔️ Down – Guide them into a down position using leash pressure or a treat.
✔️ Stay – Increase duration gradually.
✔️ Come – Use a long leash and guide them toward you.
✔️ No – Correct unwanted behaviors instantly.
Keep training sessions short (5-10 minutes) and fun, always ending on success.
6. Socialization & Handling
Expose your puppy to different people, environments, and sounds. Take them on short, controlled outings and ensure they remain calm. Handle their paws, ears, and mouth daily to prevent resistance during vet visits or grooming.
7. Stopping Bad Behaviors Early
• Jumping: Say “No” and turn away. If needed, use a leash correction.
• Biting: Redirect to a toy. If persistent, use a light scruff shake.
• Chewing: Supervise and redirect immediately. Crate when unsupervised.
• Barking: Interrupt with “No” and redirect focus.
8. Set a Routine
Consistency prevents behavior issues. Follow a daily schedule for feeding, potty breaks, training, and exercise.
Final Thoughts
Puppy training is about structure, leadership, and consistency—not bribing or waiting for bad habits to go away. Correct behaviors immediately, reward obedience, and limit their freedom until they earn it.
📞 Need professional training? Contact Elite K9 Service for expert puppy programs tailored to your needs.
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