Summary:
Bringing home a puppy is a joyful adventure, but it also comes with challenges. A well-structured puppy training schedule 0-6 months can help your furry friend grow into a confident, well-behaved adult dog. This guide by Pet Training breaks down key milestones, including socialization, basic commands, and potty training, ensuring your pup transitions smoothly from playful chaos to perfect harmony!
0-2 Months: Settling In & Early Socialization
The first weeks are all about building trust and gentle exposure to new experiences.
1. Creating a Safe Space
- Provide a cozy bed and familiar toys (e.g., a blanket with the mother’s scent).
- Avoid overwhelming noises—let them adjust at their own pace.
2. Socialization Basics
The 8-12 week window is prime time for positive introductions!
Training Goals:
✅ Name recognition (reward when they respond)
✅ Short alone-time practice (prevents separation anxiety)
✅ Gentle handling (touch paws, ears, and mouth for vet visits)
My Story:
My Golden Retriever, Luna, used to panic at doorbells. Sitting near the door with treats turned her into a calm, curious pup!
2-4 Months: Obedience Foundations & Potty Training
This phase is the golden period for teaching lifelong manners!
1. Essential Commands
- Sit: Lure upward with a treat, reward when bottom touches the ground.
- Stay: Gradually increase duration (start with 2 seconds).
- Come: Use a happy voice + treats for recalls.
2. Potty Training 101
🚽 Designate a spot (outdoors or pee pads)
⏰ Stick to a schedule (after meals, naps, playtime)
🎉 Celebrate successes (immediate praise + treats)
Pro Tip from Pet Training:
Never scold accidents—clean quietly to avoid creating fear.
4-6 Months: Advanced Skills & Consistency
Welcome to the “teenage” phase! Stay patient—consistency wins.
1. Next-Level Commands
- Leave it: For safety (e.g., dropped food).
- Loose leash walking: Stop pulling politely.
- Drop it: Essential for chew-happy pups.
2. Socialization Expansion
Expose your pup to:
- Dog-friendly cafes
- Car rides
- Playdates with calm adult dogs
My Tip:
Luna once barked at bicycles. Treats + calm redirection fixed it!
Final Notes: Your Puppy’s Success Blueprint
✅ 0-2 mos: Security + socialization
✅ 2-4 mos: Core commands + potty training
✅ 4-6 mos: Advanced skills + reinforcement
Every pup learns differently—kindness and repetition are key! For expert support, explore Pet Training (pet-training.net). We’re here to help you and your dog thrive together!
Keywords:
Puppy training schedule 0-6 months, puppy socialization, potty training timeline, basic puppy commands, leash training for puppies