The coming of a new puppy into any family is exciting. Your cute little mutt without a doubt will be the center of attention. Before too long, you will realize that the new addition to the family is a lot for you to do.

Training a puppy is not all fun and games. Your puppy’s brain is most open to new experiences and can easily shape new habits, behavior, temperament, and character that your dog will carry during his life. Your puppy completely is dependent on you.  Some puppy owners are surprised that the little mutt is a pooping machine, who cries, barks, digs and chews nonstop, but we still find them adorable and love them anyways. You need a lot of effort and patience in providing them direction and limitations to follow. You should remember that house training a puppy is easier than house training an adult dog.


Bringing a puppy to your life is a big responsibility and requires commitment and consistency in the daily training program. All family members should participate in the puppy training. Rules and responsibilities should be setup and agreed upon.

Training a puppy, what are the basics?

You will need a crate. The best and invaluable basic training is crate training. Make sure that the crate is big enough to have room for the little mutt as he/she will increase in size in the weeks to follow. In the beginning, keep your puppy in the crate for short periods of time, taking him out to walk, play around and get him to eliminate.

Puppies learn very quickly with good encouragements and correction techniques and especially so during the first few months. Give rewards when your puppy performs the correct behavior or action with food treats or gentle stroking. Remember not to leave him in the crate too long as when he eliminates in his/her crate, it might set you training back. Another reason not to confine them for too long, as it can easily develop behavioral issues, such as barking, aggression, excessive fear, and separation anxiety. Allow socializations with humans and other species.

When there are accidents, don’t punish them but show disappointment immediately. Never use physical violence or harsh corrections on your puppy.  Using violence against your puppy might result to future violent behaviors in your dog. A little perseverance, determination and patience will go a long way.

Food and water should be supervised as too much of either one would result in your puppy's incapability to hold and you would find unpleasant minor accidents at home. One food and water bowl each, stainless steel are preferred for hygienic and durability purpose. Leash and collar are a good idea to use on your puppy during periods when nobody is at home so as to prevent any accidents.

Continue training your puppy, in a month, you will be able to see the result.  Remember that the first month is very important. Spend time with your puppy, bond with him/her. Pick your puppy up, stroke him/her belly; touch her all over while gently talking to her. Encourage play, treats and touch between your visitors and your puppy. Toys can also be used as a motivator.

Keep your training short and fun. Puppies are like human toddlers, be patient, realistic, flexible, give them attention and love. Enjoy this time in your dog’s life, this is the time where you develop, build and strengthen the special bond that you will share with your dog for life.