Your New Puppy's First Lessons: A Guide to 5 Basic Commands

There’s a special kind of magic in bringing a new puppy home. It’s a whirlwind of fluffy cuddles, tiny, sharp teeth, and an energy that can fill a house with so much joy it feels like it might burst. But amidst the chaos and the cuteness, there's the quiet realization that this little being is looking to you for, well, everything. Guidance, love, and the rules of this new, strange human world. This is where training begins, and honestly, it’s one of the most beautiful parts of the journey.

I remember feeling a mix of excitement and sheer panic. What if I mess it up? What if my puppy never learns to stop chewing on my favorite shoes? The pressure can feel immense. But I quickly learned that training isn't about creating a perfectly obedient robot. It's about building a language between you and your dog—a foundation of trust and communication that will strengthen your bond for years to come. Forget the old-school, rigid methods. Today, it’s all about positive reinforcement, turning learning into a game you both love to play.

The 'Why' Before the 'How': The Power of Positive Reinforcement

Before we even get into the commands, let's talk about the single most important tool in your kit: positive reinforcement. This sounds like a fancy term, but the idea is incredibly simple. You reward the behavior you want to see. That’s it. When your puppy does something right, you mark the moment with an enthusiastic "Yes!" or a clicker, and immediately follow it with something they love—a tasty treat, a favorite toy, or a whole lot of praise.

Why does this work so well? Because it makes learning a happy and engaging experience. Your puppy isn't trying to avoid punishment; they're actively trying to earn a reward. This builds their confidence and makes them eager to figure out what you're asking. It transforms you from a taskmaster into the wonderful human who dispenses delicious snacks and fun. This approach, backed by countless veterinarians and trainers, fosters a relationship built on trust and mutual respect, not fear.

Think of it this way: you're teaching your puppy that good things happen when they cooperate. This mindset shift is everything. It encourages them to think, to problem-solve, and to offer behaviors willingly. It’s a conversation, not a monologue. And as you’ll soon see, a puppy who is excited to train is a puppy who learns quickly and joyfully.

The 5 Foundational Commands Every Puppy Should Know

Ready to get started? These five commands are the bedrock of a well-behaved dog. They provide safety, structure, and a way for you to manage your pup's energy in almost any situation. Remember to keep your training sessions short (5-10 minutes is perfect) and always end on a high note!

1. Sit

This is the classic for a reason. It’s a polite greeting, a way to prevent jumping, and a great starting point for other commands. How to teach it: Hold a small, high-value treat near your puppy’s nose. Slowly lift your hand up and slightly back over their head. As their nose goes up, their bottom will naturally go down. The very second their rear touches the floor, say "Yes!" and give them the treat. After a few repetitions, once they understand the motion, start saying the word "Sit" just as they begin to lower themselves.

2. Come

A reliable recall is not just a convenience; it's a potential lifesaver. This command can keep your dog from running into a dangerous street or getting into a scuffle at the park. How to teach it: Start in a quiet room with no distractions. Get down on your puppy's level and, in an excited, happy tone, say their name and "Come!" As they start moving toward you, praise them enthusiastically. When they reach you, throw a party! Give them the best treats, lots of pets, and maybe a quick game of tug. The goal is to make coming to you the most wonderful thing in their world.

3. Down

"Down" is a fantastic calming command. It’s perfect for settling your dog when guests arrive or when you’re relaxing at a pet-friendly cafe. How to teach it: Start with your puppy in a "Sit." Take a smelly treat and hold it by their nose. Slowly lower the treat straight down to the floor between their paws. To follow it, they'll have to lie down. The moment their elbows hit the ground, mark it with "Yes!" and let them have the treat. Once they get the hang of the lure, you can start adding the verbal cue "Down."

4. Stay

Patience is a virtue, but it’s not one that puppies are born with. "Stay" teaches impulse control and is incredibly useful in day-to-day life. How to teach it: Ask your puppy to "Sit" or "Down." Hold your hand up in a "stop" gesture and say "Stay" in a calm, steady voice. Take just one small step back. If they hold their position for even a second, step back to them, give them a treat, and then use a release word like "Okay!" to let them know they can move. Slowly, and over many sessions, increase the distance and the length of time. If they break the stay, don't scold them; just calmly lead them back to the spot and try again with an easier duration.

5. Leave It

This command is your go-to for preventing your puppy from eating something dangerous off the sidewalk or snatching food from the counter. How to teach it: This one has two parts. First, place a boring treat (like a piece of their regular kibble) in your closed fist. Let your puppy sniff and lick your hand. They’ll eventually get frustrated and back off. The moment they pull their nose away, say "Yes!" and give them a much better, high-value treat from your other hand. Once they're reliably backing away from your closed fist, you can try it with the boring treat on the floor, covering it with your hand. The rule is simple: ignoring the first treat gets them a better one.

Your Journey Together

Training your puppy is so much more than just teaching commands. It's a dance of communication and a lesson in patience for both of you. There will be days when your puppy seems to have forgotten everything they ever learned, and there will be days when you are amazed by their brilliance. Embrace it all.

Every short training session, every treat, every word of praise is a deposit into the bank of your relationship. You are building a foundation of trust that will last a lifetime. So take a deep breath, fill your pockets with treats, and enjoy the process. The well-behaved companion you're shaping is a wonderful goal, but the bond you're building along the way is the real prize.