Welcoming a new puppy into your home is exciting—but also a little overwhelming. One of the most common questions new dog owners ask is: “When should I start training my puppy?” The truth is, your puppy starts learning the moment they enter your home, so it’s essential to have a plan in place.
In this guide, we’ll break down a puppy training schedule by age, from 8 weeks all the way to 6 months and beyond. With the right structure and consistency, you can raise a well-behaved and happy pup.
🐾 Puppy Training Schedule by Age
8–10 Weeks Old: Foundation Training Begins
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Focus Areas:
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Potty training
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Name recognition
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Basic commands: sit, come
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Socialization with sounds, surfaces, people
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Tips:
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Keep training sessions short (2–5 minutes)
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Use positive reinforcement with treats and praise
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10–12 Weeks Old: Confidence Building
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Focus Areas:
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Crate training
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Leash introduction
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Bite inhibition (teaching gentle play)
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Helpful Note: Now is a good time to begin gently introducing your puppy to grooming routines—brushing, nail touching, etc.
3–4 Months Old: Skill Strengthening
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Focus Areas:
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Reinforce basic commands
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Begin “stay” and “leave it”
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Short walks on leash
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Helpful Note: Keep socializing! Meet new people, see other dogs, and explore environments safely.
4–6 Months Old: Real-Life Practice
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Focus Areas:
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Longer durations of sit/stay
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Loose leash walking
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Controlled greetings (no jumping on people)
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Training Tip: Puppies at this age may test boundaries—consistency is key.
6+ Months: Advanced Training and Problem Solving
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Focus Areas:
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Recall in distracting environments
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Off-leash commands
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Behavioral corrections (barking, jumping, etc.)
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Helpful Note: Consider group classes or a professional trainer if needed.
📌 Helpful Notes for Success
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Stay consistent: Use the same commands and routines each day.
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Short and fun: Keep training sessions brief and positive to avoid boredom.
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Patience matters: Every puppy learns at their own pace.
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Avoid punishment: Positive reinforcement works better and builds trust.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I train my puppy before they’re fully vaccinated?
Yes, but do it safely. Focus on home training and safe socialization with known dogs or puppy-safe environments.
Q2: What age is too late to train a puppy?
It’s never too late, but the earlier you start, the easier it is to shape behavior. Puppies learn best before 6 months of age.
Q3: How many times a day should I train my puppy?
Aim for 3–5 short sessions daily. You can also incorporate training into play and mealtime.
Q4: When should I start potty training?
Start immediately—at 8 weeks old or as soon as your puppy comes home.
Final Thoughts
A structured puppy training schedule by age helps your pup learn at the right pace and prevents problem behaviors before they start. With love, patience, and positive reinforcement, you’ll build a strong bond and a well-mannered companion for life.
Remember: every puppy is different. Stay flexible, celebrate small wins, and enjoy the journey!
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