Bringing home a new puppy is exciting, but it can also feel a little overwhelming. Many new dog owners wonder things like: When should I start training my puppy? How long does it take to train a puppy? or What should my puppy know by 6 months old?
The good news is that training doesn’t have to be complicated. By following a simple puppy training schedule based on your dog’s age, you can teach the right skills at the right time and help your puppy grow into a well-behaved, confident dog.
You can start training as soon as your puppy comes home, usually around 8 weeks old. At this age, training is not about strict rules but about building trust, creating routines, and encouraging good habits.
Early training includes:
The most important thing to remember is to use positive reinforcement. That means rewarding your puppy with treats, praise, or play whenever they do something right or offer a behavior that you like.
Here’s what training can look like as your puppy grows:
This is the stage where many puppies test boundaries. Training a 6-month-old puppy often means reminding them of the rules you’ve already taught. Stay patient and consistent.
Just like teenagers, puppies in this stage may push limits. Stick with your training.
By the time your dog reaches one year old, they should have a good handle on everyday skills. These include:
Training is an ongoing process. Some puppies learn the basics quickly in just a few weeks, while others may need several months. More advanced skills, like reliable off-leash recall or perfect leash walking, usually take closer to a year or more.
The key is to keep sessions short, positive, and consistent. Think of training as part of daily life, not just something you do once in a while.
At Golden Compass Canine Training, we guide families through every stage of puppyhood. Whether you’re working on potty training, teaching leash manners, or just trying to handle all that puppy energy, we’re here to help.
👉 Contact us today to get expert support and set your puppy up for success.