If you just brought home a puppy, congrats—you now have a bundle of fluff, chaos, and a chew-everything-in-sight tornado living in your house.
Trust me, I’ve been there: the first week with my lab pup felt like living with a sugar-fueled toddler on four legs. Cute? Absolutely. Calm and obedient? Not even close.
Here’s the good news: teaching your puppy a few basic commands early on is a total game-changer.
These commands don’t just make life easier for you—they keep your puppy safe and help build that adorable human-dog bond we all dream of.
This guide will walk you through 10 of the easiest, most essential puppy commands. They’re beginner-friendly, quick to teach, and come with tips I wish someone had told me when I first started.
So, grab some treats, take a deep breath, and let’s turn your mischievous little furball into a polite, happy companion.
Table of Contents
1. Sit – The First Step to Puppy Manners
Ever notice how every dog in the movies seems to magically “sit” whenever their owner says so? That’s because “Sit” is the ultimate starter command—it’s simple, clear, and builds the foundation for good behavior.
Why “Sit” Matters
- Helps control hyper pups during greetings or mealtimes.
- Encourages patience and focus.
- Prepares your puppy for other commands like “Stay” and “Wait.”
How to Teach “Sit”
- Hold a small treat close to your puppy’s nose.
- Slowly move the treat upward—your pup’s bottom will naturally drop.
- The moment their bum hits the floor, say “Sit” and reward them.
Quick Tips
- Keep your voice upbeat but firm—think “cheerful teacher” rather than drill sergeant.
- Short, frequent sessions (3–5 minutes) work best for young pups.
- Don’t push their rear down—it confuses them and slows progress.
2. Stay – Teaching Patience Like a Pro
If you’ve ever tried to keep a wiggly puppy still, you know why “Stay” is pure gold.
Why “Stay” Helps
- Prevents door-dashing and unwanted chasing.
- Builds self-control in high-energy pups.
- Keeps your pup safe in busy areas.
Step-by-Step
- Ask your puppy to “Sit.”
- Open your palm like a stop sign and say “Stay.”
- Take a small step back—if they hold position, reward immediately.
- Gradually increase the distance and duration.
Pro Tip
Start in a quiet room. Don’t expect them to stay still in the park on day one—puppies have the attention span of a TikTok scroll.
3. Come – The Lifesaver Recall Command
Picture this: your puppy slips off the leash at the park. Heart-stopping, right? That’s why “Come” can literally save your pup’s life.
Why It’s Essential
- Brings your dog back in emergencies.
- Makes off-leash play safer.
- Reduces stress when calling your pup indoors.
Teaching “Come”
- Crouch down (this makes you more inviting).
- Use a happy tone and say, “Come!”
- When your puppy runs to you, reward like they just won the lottery.
Fun Game
Play hide-and-seek around the house. It makes recall exciting and builds your pup’s eagerness to respond.
4. Down – A Calm Puppy is a Happy Puppy
Got a puppy who thinks zoomies are a lifestyle? “Down” encourages calmness and gives them a cozy resting cue.
How to Teach “Down”
- Start with your pup in the “Sit” position.
- Hold a treat to their nose and lower it to the ground.
- Slide it forward to guide them into a lying position.
- The second their elbows touch the floor, say “Down” and reward.
Troubleshooting
Some pups resist lying down—don’t force them. Use extra-tasty treats (like small bits of boiled chicken) to motivate them.
5. Leave It – Protecting Your Pup from Trouble
Dogs have a built-in magnet for gross stuff—trash, socks, your new shoes. The “Leave It” command is your best defense.
Why It’s Crucial
- Stops them from grabbing harmful items.
- Keeps walks cleaner (and less embarrassing).
- Prevents unwanted chewing.
Training Steps
- Hold a treat in your closed fist and say “Leave it.”
- Ignore any pawing or sniffing.
- When they back off or look away, reward with a different treat.
Pro Tip
Gradually move to dropping items on the floor once they master it from your hand.
6. Drop It – Avoid the Tug-of-War Battles
While “Leave it” stops them from picking things up, “Drop it” tells them to let go of whatever’s already in their mouth.
Teaching “Drop It”
- Offer a high-value treat and say “Drop it.”
- When they release the object, give the treat immediately.
- Practice with safe toys before progressing to forbidden items.
Trainer’s Secret
Never chase your pup for the object—it turns into a game. Instead, use “Drop it” to teach calm exchanges.
7. Heel – Happy Walks Without the Pulling
Few things ruin a peaceful walk like a puppy dragging you down the sidewalk. “Heel” teaches them to walk politely by your side.
Training Steps
- Hold a treat at your thigh level on the side you want your puppy to walk.
- Take a step forward, saying “Heel.”
- Reward as they follow calmly.
- Gradually increase walking distance before rewarding.
Bonus Tip
Practice in short indoor sessions before hitting the sidewalk jungle.
8. Watch Me – Boosting Focus in Distracting Spots
Puppies get distracted by literally everything—leaves, squirrels, air. “Watch Me” helps redirect their focus to you.
How to Teach
- Hold a treat near your face.
- When your puppy makes eye contact, say “Watch me” and reward.
- Practice in different environments to improve reliability.
Why It’s Handy
Great for regaining attention during training or calming a reactive pup in public.
9. Wait – Perfect for Doors, Meals, and More
“Wait” is one of the most practical commands for daily life—think holding them back from dashing out the door or snatching dinner early.
Difference from “Stay”
- “Stay” = remain in place until released.
- “Wait” = pause temporarily before moving forward.
Easy Routine
- Have your puppy “Sit” at the door.
- Say “Wait” while holding up your palm.
- Open the door slightly—if they stay, reward.
Everyday Use
Try it before setting down the food bowl to build patience.
10. Quiet – For Those Bark-a-Lot Moments
Some pups believe their voice deserves an award show. “Quiet” teaches them when to tone it down.
Training Steps
- Let your puppy bark once or twice (don’t yell—it excites them more).
- Say “Quiet” in a calm, firm voice.
- The moment they stop, even for a second, reward immediately.
Extra Tip
Consistency is key—everyone in the household must use the same cue.
Pro Tips for Puppy Training Success
- Keep sessions short: 5–10 minutes, 2–3 times a day.
- Use positive reinforcement: treats, toys, and enthusiastic praise.
- Stay consistent: same words, same tone, every time.
- Be patient: puppies are learning a new language—expect hiccups.
- Know when to get help: if you feel stuck, puppy classes or professional trainers can make a world of difference.
Conclusion
Training a puppy isn’t about perfection; it’s about progress. Every tiny success—like your pup mastering “Sit” without bribery—deserves a little victory dance.
Start with one or two commands, keep things light and fun, and celebrate the small wins. Before you know it, your puppy will transform from a bouncing ball of chaos into a polite little sidekick who listens (most of the time).
Now grab those treats, find your most patient voice, and let the training adventures begin. You’ve got this, and so does your puppy!
I am Pallab Kishore, owner of Little Pets Realm. I share important tips, advice and answer all the queries to solve various problems about small pets such as guinea pigs and hamsters on this website.