Why Training is Important
Training creates a well-behaved, confident, and happy dog and improves your bond with your pet.
Good habits formed early help avoid destructive behavior later.
Core Training Habits to Build
| Habit |
Purpose |
When to Start |
| House Training |
Teach where to pee/poop |
8 weeks+ |
| Crate Training |
Builds security & safe space |
8–10 weeks |
| Basic Commands |
Sit, Stay, Come, Down, No |
8–10 weeks |
| Leash Training |
Prevents pulling and distractions |
10 weeks+ |
| Socialization |
Reduces fear and aggression |
3–14 weeks |
| Biting/Chewing Control |
Prevents destructive behavior |
As soon as possible |
| Impulse Control |
Patience (e.g., not rushing through doors) |
3–4 months+ |
| Alone-Time Training |
Reduces separation anxiety |
10 weeks+ |
Training Schedule by Age
| Age Range |
Focus Areas |
| 8–12 weeks |
Name recognition, crate/potty training, basic commands (sit, come) |
| 3–6 months |
Leash walking, socialization, no jumping/biting |
| 6–12 months |
Advanced commands, behavior shaping (stay, leave it) |
| 1+ year |
Reinforce existing habits, introduce fun tricks, address behavior issues |
Note: Short, positive sessions (5–10 minutes, 2–3x a day) work best for young puppies.
Do’s and Don’ts of Dog Training
✅ Do:
- Use positive reinforcement (treats, praise, play)
- Be consistent with commands and rules
- Keep sessions short and fun
- Use clear, simple commands
- Socialize your dog with new people, places, and pets
❌ Don’t:
- Yell or physically punish (causes fear, not learning)
- Change rules inconsistently
- Overwhelm with long or complex sessions
- Forget mental and physical stimulation
Tools That Help
| Tool |
Use |
| Clicker |
Sound cue for positive reinforcement |
| Treat pouch |
Easy access to rewards during training |
| Crate |
Safe space and house-training tool |
| Harness & leash |
For control and loose-leash walking |
| Puzzle toys |
Keeps dog mentally engaged |
Sample Daily Training Routine
| Time |
Activity |
| 7:00 AM |
Potty + short command session |
| 10:00 AM |
Socialization walk |
| 2:00 PM |
Short impulse control drill |
| 6:00 PM |
Leash walking + recall practice |
| 8:00 PM |
Quiet time in crate or puzzle play |
Commitment, Firmness, but kindness.
About Author :
Do you have any problems with your pet? Then why not send your problem to DAVID THE DOGMAN. David is a Canine Behaviorist who works and lives in Marbella, Spain. Tel/Fax (00345) 2883388. His web site is located at: http://www.thedogman.net.
David has his own radio and TV shows, and writes for many newspapers and magazines. David has been working with dogs for many years and started his career in Israel, working on the Border Police.
He has been involved in all forms of training, including air sea rescue, air scent work, and has trained dogs for finding drugs. David has devoted the past 10 years to studying behaviour and the very passive approach. He does not use choke chains, check chains, or any form of aggression.
David The Dogman is available for private consultations in your home, for further details telephone; Tel: (+95) 2883388