Puppy training: the first six months
What to teach, when to teach it, and the mistakes that are easy to prevent now and hard to fix later.
Key takeaways
- The main socialization window closes around 12 to 14 weeks of age, so early, positive exposure matters most.
- Socialization means calm exposure, not greeting every dog and person.
- Start training the day your puppy comes home, in short, fun sessions.
- Ask your veterinarian about vaccine timing before busy public outings.
When should I start training my puppy?
Start training the day your puppy comes home. Puppies can learn their name, sit, place, crate routines, and early recall from about eight weeks, in sessions of just a few minutes. Early habits are far easier to build than to undo.
What is the puppy socialization window?
The primary socialization period runs from roughly 3 weeks to about 12–14 weeks of age. During this window puppies accept new people, places, sounds, and surfaces most easily; experiences missed now are harder to build later.
Socialization is calm, positive exposure — not greeting everyone. A puppy that learns every person and dog is a party often grows into a dog that pulls and whines at every person and dog. Aim for neutrality: the puppy notices, stays relaxed, and checks back in with you.
Ask your veterinarian how to balance socialization with your puppy's vaccination schedule; carrying a young puppy to new places and choosing safe, clean environments are common approaches.
What should I teach my puppy month by month?
| Age | Focus |
|---|---|
| 8–10 weeks | Name, crate and routine, potty schedule, handling, sit, hand target |
| 10–12 weeks | Place, early recall games, leash introduction, new surfaces and sounds |
| 3–4 months | Loose-leash basics, bite inhibition, short stays, car rides |
| 4–6 months | Recall on a long line, calm greetings, duration on place, public settings |
| 6+ months | Adolescence: expect testing; keep structure consistent |
How do I stop my puppy biting?
Puppy biting is normal exploration and play. Redirect to toys, end play calmly when teeth hit skin, give the puppy enough rest (overtired puppies bite more), and teach an off switch like crate or place.
How do I potty train a puppy?
Take your puppy out after sleeping, eating, drinking, and play, and at least every couple of hours at first. Reward outside immediately, supervise closely inside, and use a crate or pen when you can't watch. Accidents mean supervision slipped, not that the puppy is stubborn.
What are the most common puppy training mistakes?
Letting everyone greet the puppy excitedly, skipping crate and alone-time practice, and waiting until problems appear to start training. Adolescence then magnifies whatever habits were built early.
Related: the 7-7-7 rule · the 3-3-3 rule for rescue dogs · how dogs show love
More questions
Can I take my puppy out before all its vaccines?
Ask your veterinarian. Many recommend safe exposure during the socialization window, such as carrying the puppy and avoiding high-traffic dog areas, because missed socialization carries its own risks.
How long should puppy training sessions be?
Two to five minutes, several times a day. Stop while your puppy is still keen.
Do you train puppies at Lakeshore Canine?
Yes. We work with pet dogs of all ages, from young puppies to adults. Book a consultation to start with a plan.
About the author
Blair Lowe — Owner and Head Trainer, Lakeshore Canine
Blair has trained dogs professionally for over six years, in Ottawa, the United States, and now Oakville, working with family pets and high-drive working dogs. He is a PSA Certified Decoy and earned a PSA 1 Vice National Champion title with his Belgian Malinois, Zira, at PSA Nationals in 2022.
Want a plan for your dog?
Every program starts with a consultation. We serve Oakville, Burlington, Milton, Mississauga, and surrounding areas.
