Welcoming a new puppy into your home is an exciting adventure filled with cuddles, playtime, and a few chewed-up shoes. But alongside the fun comes the responsibility of teaching your furry friend basic manners and obedience. Proper puppy training not only keeps your home peaceful but also builds the foundation for a lifelong bond.

In this guide, we’ll cover five core puppy training skills every new pet parent should start with, plus pro tips, resources, and tools to make the process easier.

1. Potty Training (“Go Potty”)

House training is usually the first challenge puppy owners face. Puppies have small bladders and limited control, so consistency and patience are key.

Steps to success:

• Pick a designated potty spot. For apartments, use puppy pads; for houses, choose a backyard area.

• Use a verbal cue such as “Go Potty.” Repeat consistently.

• Take your puppy out after meals, naps, or playtime.

• Immediately praise and reward after success.

👉 For extra help, check out the AKC’s House Training Guide.

Pro Tip: Use super-absorbent puppy pads to minimize accidents indoors. Pads with odor control and built-in attractants make potty training faster and cleaner.

2. Teaching Name Recognition

A puppy who responds to their name is easier to train and safer outdoors.

How to teach:

• Say your puppy’s name in a cheerful voice.

• When they look at you, say “Yes!” and reward immediately.

• Repeat at least 10 times daily.

• Never punish if they don’t respond—stay positive.

👉 More on positive reinforcement: Humane Society Dog Training Basics.

3. Loose-Leash Walking

Walking a dog should be enjoyable—not a tug-of-war. Start training while your puppy is young.

Training steps:

• Begin in a quiet room or fenced yard.

• Hold treats at knee level to encourage your pup to stay close.

• Take a step, reward when they follow calmly.

• If they pull, stop walking or change direction.

👉 Gear matters: Use a comfortable harness for puppies to avoid neck strain.

Resource: The ASPCA’s Walking Guide has more leash-walking tips.

4. Recall (“Come When Called”)

A reliable recall can save your dog’s life. Training recall ensures your puppy comes back to you even with distractions.

Steps to build recall:

1. Start indoors, say “Come” and reward heavily.

2. Increase distance and distractions gradually.

3. Make recall fun—use play, treats, or praise.

4. Never call your dog to punish; it must always be positive.

👉 Tip: Use a long-line training leash for safe recall practice outdoors.

Extra Reading: PetMD Recall Training Tips

5. Crate Training

A crate isn’t a cage—it’s a safe space. It helps with potty training, prevents destructive behavior, and gives your pup a cozy den.

Best practices:

• Feed meals inside the crate to build positive associations.

• Use chew-safe toys like KONGs for crate time.

• Start with short sessions, gradually increase duration.

• Never use the crate as punishment.

👉 Learn more from the AKC’s Crate Training Guide.

Final Thoughts

Training your puppy doesn’t need to feel overwhelming. By focusing on these five key skills—potty training, name recognition, leash walking, recall, and crate training—you’ll set the foundation for a happy, well-behaved dog.

With the right tools like HoneyCare Puppy Pads, consistent positive reinforcement, and patience, you’ll not only prevent accidents but also enjoy a smoother journey as a pet parent.