Puppy obedience training isn’t about strict rules — it’s about communication, trust, and teaching your dog how to be a great companion.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to build a strong training foundation for your puppy with key commands, helpful routines, and tips to make training fun and effective.
Whether you’re raising your first puppy or need a refresher, you’re in the right place.
Why Obedience Training Is So Important
Obedience training sets your puppy up for success in everyday life. It teaches them how to:
- Listen and respond to you
- Stay safe around people and other animals
- Navigate the world with confidence
Plus, it strengthens the bond between you and your dog — they learn to trust and look to you for guidance.
When to Start Training
Start as early as 8 weeks old! Puppies are little learning sponges. Short, positive sessions are best — just 5–10 minutes a few times a day.
You don’t need fancy tools or hours of free time. Just patience, treats, and consistency.
The 5 Core Puppy Commands
Start with these foundational commands. They build focus and self-control and make daily life easier.
1. Sit
Helps with impulse control and is great for greeting people politely.
How to teach:
- Hold a treat near your puppy’s nose
- Move it upward and slightly back
- When their bottom hits the ground, say “yes!” and give the treat
2. Down
Encourages calm and relaxation.
How to teach:
- Ask your pup to sit
- Lower a treat from their nose straight down to the floor
- Move it slightly forward until they lie down
- Mark and reward
3. Stay
Builds impulse control and focus.
How to teach:
- Ask for “sit” or “down”
- Hold your hand up like a stop sign and say “stay”
- Take one step back, return, and reward
- Increase distance and time gradually
4. Come
Essential for safety and recall.
How to teach:
- Use a happy voice: “Come!”
- Open your arms and kneel down
- Reward generously when your pup arrives
- Practice indoors, then outdoors on a long leash
5. Leave It
Teaches your puppy to ignore something tempting (like a dropped snack or sock).
How to teach:
- Place a treat in your closed hand
- Let your pup sniff — when they back off, say “yes!” and reward with a different treat
How to Structure Puppy Training Sessions
- Keep it short: 5–10 minutes
- Use high-value treats: Something extra tasty your pup loves
- Practice in quiet places first: Fewer distractions = faster learning
- End on a win: Always finish with something your puppy can succeed at
Beyond Commands: Building Everyday Obedience
Training isn’t just about “sit” and “stay” — it’s about how your puppy behaves day to day.
Key Life Skills:
- Waiting at doors before going out
- Walking calmly on a leash
- Being comfortable with grooming and handling
- Settling quietly when asked
Daily Habits:
- Use mealtimes to practice commands
- Ask for “sit” before play or going outside
- Reinforce calm behavior with praise or treats
Troubleshooting Common Training Issues
My puppy won’t listen outside!
- Start indoors, then slowly add distractions
- Use higher-value treats and shorter sessions
My puppy gets bored easily.
- Keep training upbeat and fun
- Mix in toys, games, or short play breaks
They’re great at home but ignore me in public.
- Practice in new places gradually
- Use a long leash for safe freedom while training
What to Read Next
Obedience training builds the foundation for a lifelong bond with your dog. Start small, be consistent, and make it fun — and soon you’ll have a well-mannered pup you can take anywhere.
Want a free printable obedience training checklist? Download it here!