The first skill to train is a reliable “name game” (attention on cue): when you say your puppy’s name, they immediately look at you. Our team starts here because it’s the foundation for every other behavior—potty trips, leash walking, recall, and polite greetings all go faster when you can get your puppy’s focus in one second.
Use tiny, soft treats your puppy can swallow quickly, or a few pieces of kibble if food motivation is high. Keep portions small so you can practice a lot without overfeeding.
Stand a few feet away in a quiet room. Say your puppy’s name one time in a cheerful voice. The moment they look at you, mark it with “Yes!” and deliver the treat right by your leg so coming toward you becomes part of the habit.
Do 5–10 repetitions, 2–4 times per day. End before your puppy gets bored. Consistency matters more than long sessions, especially in the first week at home.
Once your puppy snaps their head toward you indoors, practice in a hallway, then the yard, then on calm walks. Increase distractions slowly. If they ignore you, don’t repeat the name—move closer, reduce distractions, and make the reward better.
After your puppy responds to their name, prioritize a potty routine, a simple “sit,” and a brief “come” at close range. Pair those with calm handling (touch paws, ears, collar) and short, positive socialization outings. For a structured timeline, follow our step-by-step plan here: calm 4-week puppy training plan.
Keep sessions to about 1–3 minutes for young puppies, repeating a few times per day. Stop while your puppy is still engaged so training stays fun and effective.
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