How to Train Your Puppy: 7 Essential Commands Every Dog Should Know

Bringing home a puppy is exciting—and just a little overwhelming! But don’t worry: with patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement, your puppy can learn all the good habits to become a well-behaved companion. Here’s a simple guide to teach your pup the basics: sit, listen to "no," go potty in the right place, stop barking excessively, avoid eating unsafe items, wait, and give paw.

1. Sit 🪑

Why it’s important: “Sit” is the foundation for many other commands and helps your dog stay calm and controlled.

How to train:

• Hold a treat close to your puppy’s nose.

• Move your hand up slowly. As their head follows the treat, their bottom will naturally lower.

• The moment they sit, say “Sit” and give the treat with praise.

• Repeat several times daily in short sessions.

💡 Tip: Use a calm, cheerful voice and always reward immediately.

2. Understanding “No” 🚫

Why it’s important: Teaching “no” helps your puppy avoid bad behavior or danger (like chewing wires).

How to train:

• Say “No” firmly (not yelling) when they do something unwanted.

• Immediately redirect them to a more appropriate behavior (e.g., chew a toy instead of shoes).

• Praise when they make the right choice.

💡 Tip: Timing matters! Say “no” in the moment—not after.

3. Potty Training (Pee & Poop in One Spot) 🚽

Why it’s important: No one likes surprise puddles—and consistency helps your puppy learn faster.

How to train:

• Pick one potty spot outside and take your puppy there regularly (after meals, naps, and play).

• Use a phrase like “Go potty” while they go.

• Praise and give a treat immediately after they finish.

• If accidents happen indoors, clean thoroughly and avoid punishment.

💡 Tip: Puppies thrive on routine. Take them out at the same times every day.

4. Barking Control 🗣️

Why it’s important: Some barking is normal—but too much can be disruptive.

How to train:

• First, figure out why they’re barking (boredom? attention? fear?).

• Teach the “quiet” command: when barking, say “Quiet,” wait for silence, then reward.

• Never yell—it can make barking worse.

💡 Tip: A tired puppy is a quiet puppy. Make sure they get exercise and play!

5. Don’t Eat That! 🍫🚫

Why it’s important: Puppies explore with their mouths—sometimes dangerously.

How to train:

• Use the “leave it” command. Hold a treat in your closed fist and say “Leave it.”

• When they stop sniffing/licking your hand, praise and give a different treat from the other hand.

• Practice with non-food items later.

💡 Tip: Be consistent—don’t laugh when they “steal” something one day and scold them the next.

6. Wait ⏳

Why it’s important: This teaches impulse control, especially before meals, doors, or crossing streets.

How to train:

• Ask your puppy to “sit.”

• Hold your hand up like a stop sign and say “Wait.”

• Count a few seconds, then say “Okay!” and release.

• Increase wait time slowly as they improve.

💡 Tip: Always release your puppy with the same word (“Okay” or “Free”) to avoid confusion.

7. Paw (Shake Hands) 🤝

Why it’s fun: It’s cute, it builds trust, and it’s great for socialization.

How to train:

• Ask your puppy to “sit.”

• Say “Paw” and gently lift one paw while giving a treat.

• Eventually, they’ll offer the paw on their own.

💡 Tip: Keep it light and playful—this one’s a trick, not a rule.

Training your puppy isn’t about being perfect—it’s about building a bond through trust, routine, and positive reinforcement. Keep sessions short (5–10 minutes), use tasty rewards, and celebrate small wins. Every dog learns at their own pace, and with patience and love, your pup will be a pro in no time.