Getting a puppy is incredibly exciting. You pick out the perfect name, buy treats and supplies, map out walking routes, and emotionally prepare for the unlimited cuteness. While these steps are a must, don’t forget to lay a good foundation for your puppy’s training too. It may seem premature to even consider training right away, but proper training will make your dog a companion for life. Here are some skills and rhythms that go with the first year:

Before 6 Months

The first six months of your puppy’s life are not ideal to begin dog obedience training in Las Vegas. However, it is a good time to build trust by spending quality time with your pup. Along with creating trust, building structure also helps to build your dog’s confidence in you. Start building structure with consistent feeding, playtime, and bedtime. And, since you are likely to house-train your puppy, make sure that potty routines stay consistent as well.

By 6 Months

By 6 months of age, the main skill to teach your dog is consistent recall.  This means that your dog knows to come when called. This skill builds on the foundation of trust you worked heavily on, in the early months. The ability to come when called also helps your dog stay safer. And, since puppies are known for their curiosity, a dog who comes, can be called away from hazardous activities in a flash.

By 1 Year

By one year of age, you will have a strong sense of your puppy’s personality. Beyond the immediate personality quirks, keep an eye out for aggressiveness, protectiveness, anxieties, and fears. Being cognizant of these traits will arm you with knowledge and discussion points for when you begin training.