It’s never too late to train your dog, but it’s going to be easier for the both of you if you get started early. Simple training can start as soon as a puppy arrives in his new home around 8 or 9 weeks of age. This is the best time to help him get used to having his feet and teeth handled, teach him how to walk on a leash and let him know that it’s OK for you to pick up his food dish, even if he’s eating, so he won’t challenge you later on.

Getting Started

By the time a puppy is 10 to 12 weeks old he’s ready and eager to absorb basic obedience training and to learn simple tricks. This is a good time to teach him to sit, shake hands and to come when you call him. It’s also the ideal age for you to take him to a good puppy class so he can develop social skills and learn to get along with other people and dogs. Your dog will continue to learn easily throughout his entire first year, and once he has the idea, you’ll be able to give him more advanced training as he gets older.