What Kind of Training Should I Start When I Get My Puppy? | Reward-Based Puppy Training Tips
Tracy Donaldson 
Wondering how to start puppy training the right way? Discover essential tips, the difference between bribing vs. rewarding, and what to avoid.
What Kind of Training Should I Start with as Soon as I Get My Puppy?
Bringing home a new puppy is like inviting a tiny, fluffy whirlwind into your life. One moment they’re melting your heart with puppy eyes, and the next, they’re gnawing on your favorite shoes. (RIP, sneakers.) So, when do you start with puppy training? Right away! The earlier you begin, the better. Here's how to set your pup up for success with reward-based training while avoiding common pitfalls.
1. Start with the Basics: Bonding and Socialization
Before you dive into formal puppy training, focus on getting to know your puppy and building your relationship. This helps your puppy see you as their safe place. Appropriate socialization is equally crucial—expose your pup to new sights, sounds, and experiences in a positive way and at a pace that’s right for them. Too much too soon can be just as bad as none at all . Think of socialization as building their "life confidence."
Tips for success:
Introduce them to different surfaces (grass, gravel, wood floors, sidewalks).
Let them meet some people and ignore others when out and about.
Reward behavior you like with treats and praise.
2. Essential Puppy Training Commands
Start with simple commands that set the foundation for good manners:
Sit: Perfect for getting their attention and preventing jumping.
Down: Helps calm an excited puppy.
Stay: Combine this with hanging out on their bed.
Come: A potential lifesaver!
Use positive reinforcement—treats, toys, affection or whatever your puppy loves—to make learning fun.
3. Bribing vs. Rewarding: Know the Difference
Here's where many puppy parents stumble. If you’re waving a treat before your puppy does what you ask, that's bribing. It teaches them to work only when goodies are visible.
Rewarding, on the other hand, happens after the desired behavior. For example:
Puppy sits? Treat appears like magic!
Puppy ignores the shoe? Jackpot!
The key is to reinforce good choices, not to "negotiate" with your furry toddler.
4. Common Mistakes to Avoid in Reward-Based Dog Training
Even with the best intentions, some common missteps can slow progress:
Inconsistent Cues: If "down" sometimes means "off," your puppy will be confused. Pick one cue per behavior.
Delayed Rewards: Puppies live in the moment. Reward within two seconds of the behavior for clarity.
Skipping or Over Socialization: Socialization is helping your puppy prepare for life and letting them experience different things. It is much much more than just meeting people and dogs!!
5. Potty Training: Patience Required
Start immediately! Take your puppy out frequently—after eating, drinking, playing and napping. Praise and treat when they get it right. Accidents? Stay calm, clean up, and move on. They're learning!
Final Thoughts: Keep It Fun!
Puppy training should feel like a game (and a lot of it is),it should not be a chore. Short, frequent sessions (5-10 minutes) work best. Celebrate the wins—even the tiny ones—because this will build your relationship!! And remember, your puppy isn’t "being stubborn": they’re just figuring out our weird human world.
Want more tips on positive reinforcement and avoiding common training mistakes? Email me and let's set up your path to success today!
Categories: : Dogs, dogtraining, fear free training, puppies, reward based training, positive reinforcement