Puppies don’t come with an instruction manual, but they do come with boundless energy, cheeky grins, and the occasional chaos. Teaching them the basics early on is the secret to turning that playful ball of fluff into a well-mannered family member. The best part is, you don’t need fancy skills or professional training experience when puppy training: just patience, consistency, and a pocket full of treats.

If you’re looking for simple tips for training a new puppy, you’re in the right place. We’ll break down the puppy training basics and show you how to kick things off with three easy commands every pup should know: sit, stay, and come.

Command 1: Sit

Teaching “sit” is usually the first step in puppy training. It’s simple, effective, and useful in countless everyday situations.

Here’s how to start:

  1. Hold a small treat just above your puppy’s nose.
  2. Slowly move it back over their head.
  3. As their nose follows the treat, their bottom will naturally lower.
  4. Once they sit, say “sit” clearly and reward them.

Repeat this in short bursts throughout the day. Puppies learn best in small doses, and over time, this action will become second nature.

Command 2: Stay

“Stay” helps keep your pup safe and teaches impulse control. Once your dog has mastered “sit,” it’s time to add this command.

  1. Ask your puppy to sit.
  2. Hold your hand out like a stop sign and say “stay.”
  3. Step back slowly. If they remain in place, reward them.
  4. Gradually increase the distance and time before rewarding.

Consistency is key. With practice, “stay” becomes one of the most valuable puppy training tips you’ll ever use.

Command 3: Come

Teaching “come” can be life-saving in situations where your dog might wander too far. It’s best to practice in a safe, enclosed space.

  1. Call your puppy’s name in an upbeat tone, followed by “come.”
  2. Crouch down, open your arms, and encourage them toward you.
  3. Reward them with treats and lots of praise when they arrive.

Make sure “come” is always a positive experience. Never call your pup for punishment. This way, they’ll associate the action with fun, safety, and rewards.

General Tips for Training a New Puppy

Every puppy learns at their own pace. The following additional puppy training tips will help keep the process smooth and stress-free:

  • Keep sessions short. Five to ten minutes is plenty.
  • Be consistent with your commands and rewards.
  • Use positive reinforcement, not punishment.
  • Practice in different environments to help your puppy generalise.

Beyond the Basics

Starting with the three core puppy training basics gives your dog confidence and structure. Once your pup has mastered sit, stay, and come, you can expand to other commands like down, leave it, or heel. These build on the same principles: patience, consistency, and rewards.

You’ll also find that good routines carry over into other areas, like puppy toilet training, which relies on the same consistency and positive reinforcement. By keeping things clear and rewarding, your pup will quickly connect the dots and build good habits that last.

Your Puppy Journey Begins Here

At Boutique Cavoodles, we give families the tools to thrive together with their Cavoodle puppies or King Charles Cavaliers. Every pup comes from a loving home, backed by health checks and a focus on early socialisation, so you can put those basic puppy training tips into practice straight away.

If you’re ready to welcome a new best friend into your family, explore our litters today and discover our trusted approach.