| Command |
How to Train |
Tip |
| Sit |
Hold a treat above their nose, move it back until their bottom hits the ground. |
Use a clear voice + palm-up signal. |
| Stay |
Start with 2 seconds: say "stay," step back, reward if they don’t move. |
Gradually increase distance. |
| Come |
Kneel, call their name happily, reward with a treat immediately when they arrive. |
Never scold after a "come" – build trust. |
| Down |
Show a treat, move it to the floor in front of them, say "down." |
Use a flat palm gesture. |
| Leave It |
Place a treat in your closed fist. When they stop sniffing, say "leave it" and reward. |
Great for preventing trash raiding! |
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Morning (after potty):
- 5 min: Practice "sit" before meals.
-
Afternoon (playtime):
- 10 min: Leash training (loose leash walking).
-
Evening (calm time):
- 5 min: "Stay" and "come" in a quiet room.
-
Before Bed:
- Potty break + 2 min of "down" command.
Pro Tip: Train in 5-10 minute chunks – puppies have short attention spans!
| Problem |
Solution |
Avoid |
| Puppy Biting |
1. Redirect to a chew toy.
2. Yelp "ouch!" and pause play.
3. Time-out for 10 seconds. |
Scolding – they’ll bite harder! |
| Excessive Barking |
1. Ignore until quiet (no eye contact).
2. Reward silence with a treat. |
Saying "stop barking" – they’ll think you’re joining in! |
| Potty Accidents |
1. Immediately take outside after meals/wakes.
2. Clean with enzyme cleaner. |
Rubbing their nose in it – builds fear. |
| Pulling on Leash |
1. Stop walking when they pull.
2. Move again when leash is loose. |
Yanking – harms their neck. |
- 🌟 High-Value Treats: Chicken, cheese, or freeze-dried liver (cut into small pieces).
- 🎯 Clicker: Mark the exact moment of good behavior (pair with a treat).
- 🐾 Long Line Leash: For safe recall training in parks (15-30 ft length).
- 📦 Crate: Create a den-like space for naps and alone time (never use as punishment).
- ❌ Use punishment (yelling, hitting, shock collars).
- ❌ Skip socialization (expose to 10+ new people/animals by 14 weeks).
- ❌ Over-train – keep sessions fun and positive!
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Week 1: Master "sit" and potty training basics.
-
Week 2: Add "stay" and leash training.
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Week 3: Practice "come" in low-distraction areas.
-
Week 4: Introduce "down" and socialization with other dogs.
Remember: Every puppy learns at their own pace – celebrate small wins!
This cheat sheet distills complex training into actionable steps, helping new owners build confidence and consistency. Pair with our blog’s science-backed tips for best results! 🐾
