What Age Should You Start Training Your Dog? A Realistic Timeline

Ideally, training should begin almost at birth for dogs. No, a dog isn’t going to be able to sit on command before their eyes are opened, but they should start learning about the world around them from the time they’re born. Once a puppy is adopted by their owner, typically at eight weeks or older, more training can and should begin. Over time, there is a lot of training done to help dogs be the best companion possible for their owner. 

Basic Introduction to Training at Home

When the puppy first comes home, it’s time to start introducing them to training. At eight to 12 weeks old, puppies are eager to learn and want to do whatever the owner wants. This isn’t the time to start rigorgous obedience training for dogs, as they may not be at that level yet, but training at this stage can include learning to sit, stay, walk on a leash, and more. All of these are the very basics that trainers expand on during obedience training. 

Socialization and Puppy Classes

By the time a puppy is around 12 weeks old, they should have some of their vaccinations, so it’s time to start exploring the world and learning more about what to expect outside of the house. At this stage, socialization is vital, as there is a limited window for the initial socialization to occur. This is a great time for puppy classes, so owners can learn the basics for obedience training and start working on teaching the puppy everything they need to know. 

Refining the Skills and Learning Boundaries

As the puppy continues to grow, focus should be on refining the skills they’ve already learned, like walking on a leash, and teaching them boundaries. This can mean learning commands like “stay” when the owner leaves the area or learning “leave it” to prevent puppies from picking up things they shouldn’t eat. This stage can be the most challenging, as it occurs during the teenager stage where the puppy may not listen as well, but with patience, the puppy can learn what thry need to know. 

Practicing in the Real World

Around six to 12 months of age, practice can extend into the real world. Puppies can start to learn how to follow commands when they’re outside of the house, so they know they have to listen no matter where they are. This stage also includes learning how to calmly meet other dogs, having a reliable recall in case they get off the leash, and working through any fear periods or behavior issues they may have. 

Advanced Training Opportunities

Don’t forget that training can, and should, continue after the puppy learns the basics. Advanced training opportunities like scent work help the puppy use their brains for mental stimulation, can increase the bond between puppy and owner, and can help teach them more skills that will help them be better-behaved dogs. 

Training your puppy should start the day you bring them home and should continue throughout their life. Structured training doesn’t have to be the only option, either, as it is possible to continue lifelong training to help keep dogs happy and learning. Find the right training facility to start getting the help needed to train your puppy today and to learn the basics so you can continue training at home. 

Also Read: Dog Bite Liability: What Owners Need to Know