Pro dog trainer shares when to start training - And what not to do
Dog trainer reveals the ideal age to start training puppies (photo: Getty Images)
The best time to start training a dog is not when it's older, but while it's still a puppy. Experts recommend beginning training as early as 8–10 weeks. At this age, the puppy is already well-adapted to its environment, learns easily through play, and is actively socializing, said Ukrainian dog trainer Serhii Kuziakin.
Why it's essential to start early
The critical period of socialization is from 3 to 16 weeks. This is when the foundation of a dog's psyche is formed. What the puppy is exposed to during this time—people, sounds, objects, other animals—leaves a lasting impact.
“If you miss this period, the dog may develop fears, anxiety, or undesirable behavior in the future,” the expert explains.
By 4–5 months, puppies develop basic behavioral patterns: what is allowed, how to react to new things, and how to interact with people. Early training helps shape proper responses from the start.
Moreover, young puppies haven't yet formed habits like pulling on the leash, grabbing food, or barking at everything. These are easier to prevent than to correct later.
Also, at a young age, dogs best respond to training through short play-based sessions—lasting 2 to 5 minutes. This approach creates positive emotions and builds a pleasant association with learning in the future.
What a puppy can learn at 2–3 months
- Responding to its name, establishing contact ("look", "come here")
- Self-control: not grabbing, not jumping, learning to wait
- Hygiene habits and calm leash behavior
- Socialization with people, animals, and objects
- Basic commands: "sit", "lie down", "no"
- Calm acceptance of procedures: handling, muzzle use, vet visits
"It's best to start as early as possible. This isn't about strict training but gentle, positive education from day one to teach and build good habits," Serhii Kuziakin concludes.
Earlier, we explained how many times a day to walk the dogs of different breeds.
