Training a puppy is one of the most rewarding experiences for any dog owner. Beyond teaching obedience, it strengthens the bond between you and your furry friend, builds confidence, and provides mental stimulation that keeps your puppy happy and well-behaved. Among the first commands that owners usually teach are “sit” and “shake hands,” but training doesn’t need to stop there.

Why Training Matters

Training is about more than obedience. A well-trained puppy is safer, calmer, and better adjusted to social situations. Commands like “sit” and “shake” are foundational because:

• Sit helps control your puppy in busy or stressful environments.
• Shake hands encourages calm cooperation and builds confidence.
• Early training sets the stage for advanced tricks, socialization, and healthy routines.

Puppies are naturally curious, energetic, and impressionable. Early training channels their energy into positive behaviors, prevents problem habits, and strengthens the bond between you and your puppy.

Essential Tools for Training

Before you start, gather the right tools. These will make sessions smoother and more effective.

Tool	Purpose	Notes
Small, soft treats	Reward positive behavior	Cut into tiny pieces so your puppy can quickly chew and swallow
Clicker (optional)	Marks desired behavior precisely	Use immediately as behavior occurs
Leash and collar/harness	Keep control during certain commands	Especially useful for outdoor sessions
Calm, distraction-free space	Helps focus	Minimize noise and other pets during first sessions
Patience	Maintain a positive attitude	Puppies learn at different rates; avoid frustration

Short, frequent sessions (5–10 minutes) are more effective than one long session. Puppies have short attention spans, so multiple brief sessions spread throughout the day work best.

Teaching Your Puppy to Sit

1. Get Attention: Show a treat to your puppy and let them sniff it.
2. Lure into Position: Slowly move the treat above their head and toward their back. Most puppies will naturally lower their bottom to follow the treat.
3. Mark and Reward: As soon as their bottom touches the ground, say “yes” or click if using a clicker, and immediately give the treat.
4. Add the Cue Word: Introduce the verbal cue “sit” just before you lure the puppy. Repeat until they respond to the word alone.
5. Practice in Different Settings: Gradually add distractions and practice in various locations so your puppy generalizes the command.

Training Tip: Keep sessions upbeat. If your puppy gets distracted, take a break and try again later.

Teaching Your Puppy to Shake Hands

1. Start from a Sit: A seated puppy is more stable and attentive.
2. Present Your Hand: Extend your hand, palm up, and say “shake” or “paw.”
3. Encourage Paw Movement: Many puppies naturally lift a paw. If needed, gently tap the paw or the floor to prompt the motion.
4. Mark and Reward: Praise and give a treat as soon as the paw touches your hand. Timing is critical.
5. Repeat and Reinforce: Keep sessions short and positive. Gradually reduce treats while continuing praise.

Training Tip: Some puppies are hesitant with paws. Be gentle, and never force their paw into your hand. Patience builds trust.

Adding Fun Tricks Beyond Sit and Shake

Once your puppy masters basic commands, you can introduce additional tricks to provide mental stimulation and strengthen communication.

Lie Down

• Start from “sit.”
• Move a treat slowly toward the floor.
• When your puppy lies down completely, mark and reward.
• Introduce the cue “lie down” once behavior is consistent.

Stay

• Begin from “sit” or “lie down.”
• Show a hand signal (palm out) and say “stay.”
• Step back gradually, rewarding calm behavior.
• Increase distance and duration slowly.

Come When Called

• Use an inviting tone: “Come!”
• Start at short distances and reward generously.
• Gradually increase distance and introduce mild distractions.

Roll Over

• Begin from “lie down.”
• Use a treat to guide your puppy’s nose toward their shoulder, encouraging a roll.
• Reward each successful roll. Repeat in short bursts to avoid fatigue.

Target Touch

• Teach your puppy to touch their nose to your hand or a target.
• Useful for agility training, redirecting attention, and interactive games.

Step-by-Step Training Schedule

Here’s an example of a weekly routine for puppies 8–16 weeks old:

Day	Focus	Duration	Notes
Monday	Sit	5 min	Multiple short sessions
Tuesday	Shake Hands	5–7 min	Use high-value treats
Wednesday	Lie Down	5 min	Combine with sit for smooth transition
Thursday	Come When Called	5–10 min	Start short distances
Friday	Stay	5–10 min	Gradually increase duration
Saturday	Roll Over	5 min	Optional, fun trick
Sunday	Review All	10–15 min	Reinforce and reward progress

Tip: Always end sessions with success. Even a single trick performed well leaves a positive impression.

Common Challenges and Solutions

Distraction or Short Attention Span

• Solution: Reduce distractions, shorten sessions, use highly desirable treats.

Hesitant or Fearful Puppy

• Solution: Introduce one new command at a time. Use gentle encouragement and patience.

Regression in Learned Behavior

• Solution: Review previous commands, reinforce frequently, and maintain consistent cues.

Overexcitement

• Solution: Teach calm behaviors first. Reward calmness before starting the trick.

Extra Tips for Success

• Positive Reinforcement Only: Avoid punishment; it undermines trust.
• Use Your Voice and Tone: Puppies respond to your emotions. Keep it upbeat and encouraging.
• Consistency: Use the same cues, gestures, and rewards every session.
• Short Breaks: Let your puppy rest between sessions.
• Socialization: Combine training with play, walks, and exposure to new environments.

Why Training Matters Beyond Tricks

Training provides mental stimulation, reduces problem behaviors, and enhances social skills. Puppies that are trained and mentally engaged are less likely to chew furniture, bark excessively, or develop anxiety. It also strengthens your ability to communicate effectively with your dog, making life together smoother and more enjoyable.

Teaching your puppy to sit, shake, and perform other tricks is a fun, interactive way to bond while building discipline and confidence. Consistency, patience, and positive reinforcement are the keys to success. Every puppy learns differently, so adapt your methods to their personality and progress at their pace.

Remember, training isn’t just about obedience—it’s about creating a joyful, trusting relationship. With practice and dedication, your puppy can grow into a confident, well-behaved, and happy companion who enjoys learning and interacting with you every day.