Early training should help a dog understand everyday life and feel confident with you. Start in a quiet setting, use rewards the dog enjoys and practice for a few minutes at a time. A puppy does not need to be physically pressed into position to learn.
Teach a response to the name
Say the puppy's name once in a friendly voice. When it looks toward you, mark that moment with a consistent word such as yes and offer a small reward. Practice when the puppy is not already absorbed in something difficult to leave.
Its name can mean that useful information is coming; it does not have to mean come here every time. Avoid using the name mainly before scolding. If the puppy does not respond, reduce the distraction or move closer instead of repeating the cue louder and louder.
Introduce sit without pushing
Hold a small treat near the dog's nose and slowly move it slightly upward and back. Many dogs will lower their bottom as their head follows. Reward as soon as the bottom reaches the floor. If the dog jumps or backs away, adjust your hand position and try a smaller movement.
After the movement becomes familiar, add the word sit just before the action. Gradually reduce the visible food lure while continuing to reward success. Never press on the hips or insist on sitting if the dog appears uncomfortable; pain or the surface may make the position difficult.
Build a happy recall
At a short distance indoors, say the recall cue and encourage the puppy to approach. Reward arrival generously. Practice briefly, then often let the puppy return to its activity so coming to you does not always end the fun.
Outside, use a secure enclosed area or an appropriately handled long line attached to a suitable harness. Keep the line away from hazards and avoid sudden stops at speed. Do not rely on an untested recall near roads, wildlife or livestock, and never punish a dog after it finally comes back.
Make resting a skill
Reward the puppy for stepping onto a bed or mat, then for relaxing there. Begin with short moments and gradually build duration. Settling is different from sit, and the puppy should not be forced to remain still when it needs to toilet, move or rest elsewhere.
Keep expectations realistic
Use consistent words and gestures, and teach household members the same approach. Dogs can learn associations with words, but they do not automatically understand every sentence. Practice a familiar skill in several easy places before adding more distractions.
Introduce collars or harnesses gently from the start and use secure equipment outside. Adult dogs are not guaranteed to be safe with puppies, so choose contacts carefully with veterinary guidance. For persistent fear, frustration or handling problems, seek a qualified reward-based trainer rather than making sessions stricter.
