When should you start training a puppy?

Start the day your puppy comes home, usually around 8 weeks old. Puppies learn constantly, so gentle training and, crucially, positive socialization should begin immediately. The critical socialization window closes around 16 weeks, so early, positive exposure to people, sounds and situations matters more than any single command.

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Step by step

From day one, reward the behavior you want (calm, eye contact, going potty outside) so good habits form early.
Prioritize socialization before 16 weeks: safely introduce new people, surfaces, sounds and gentle handling, always positive.
Keep training sessions very short, 1–2 minutes, several times a day, to match a puppy's attention span.
Start with easy wins: name recognition, sit, and coming when called indoors.
Use only positive reinforcement: puppies that are punished become fearful and learn more slowly.
Enroll in a well-run puppy class once vaccinations allow, for safe socialization and structure.

Frequently asked questions

Is 8 weeks too early to train a puppy?

No. Puppies are learning from the moment they arrive, so gentle, reward-based training from 8 weeks sets the foundation. Just keep it short and fun.

What should I teach a puppy first?

Name recognition, potty training, sit, coming when called, and gentle handling: alongside lots of positive socialization, which is the top priority before 16 weeks.

Can you train an older dog?

Absolutely: the 'old dogs can't learn' idea is a myth. Adult dogs learn well; they may just need more repetition to replace established habits.