Many dog owners ask themselves: when is the best time to start training? Should you wait until the dog is older? Or maybe give them some time to settle in? If you're wondering the same, here's some good news — you can start right away. Let me explain why.
The Best Age to Start Training a Dog
Although it might seem like a puppy is too young to learn, the first weeks and months of life are actually the best time to start training. From the moment your pup enters your home, you can (and should) start teaching them the basic rules of everyday life.
Of course, this doesn’t mean treating a puppy like an adult dog. Training a young dog requires patience, understanding, and adjusting expectations. Early socialization and building positive associations are key — it’s an investment that will pay off for years to come.
When to Begin? The Sooner, the Better
When a dog first enters our home, we’re usually full of excitement and emotions. But it's just as important to clearly define rules and boundaries from the very beginning.
A dog that doesn’t know what is allowed and what’s not will simply make up their own rules. While these may make sense to the dog, they often turn out to be problematic for us. That’s why the sooner we set clear guidelines, the easier it is to build a solid, respectful relationship.
What If Your Dog Is No Longer a Puppy?
It’s never too late to start training. If you're adopting an adult dog, it's just as important to introduce structure and stick to it consistently. Dogs, regardless of age, need clear communication and routines. It helps them feel safe and understand what’s expected of them.
The key here is consistency. If you let your dog on the couch one day and scold them for it the next, they'll just get confused. Clear, predictable boundaries lead to faster learning and a more balanced relationship.
When Training Doesn’t Seem to Work
Sometimes, despite your best efforts, things don’t go as planned. That can be frustrating — but it doesn’t always mean you’re doing something wrong. The issue could be unclear communication, poor timing, or a lack of consistency.
In such cases, a fresh perspective can make a big difference. Small changes in how you train can lead to real progress. And if you're feeling stuck — don’t hesitate to ask for help. As a certified behaviorist, I support dog owners in better understanding their pets and finding solutions that work. No judgment — just guidance and empathy.
How to Make Training More Effective
Effective training is all about small steps. Instead of expecting your dog to perform perfectly right away, reward every bit of progress. Building new behaviors takes time, repetition, and patience.
Also, keep in mind: never train when you're angry or frustrated. Your dog will sense your mood, and instead of learning, they’ll just feel stressed. In that case, it’s better to take a break and return when you’re both calm and ready.
Need Help with Training or Behavior Issues?
If you’re unsure about your training approach, your dog shows unwanted behaviors, or you just want to build a healthy, trusting relationship — feel free to get in touch. I work individually with each dog and human team, offering calm, personalized guidance.
