"Build Discipline, Trust, and Clear Communication with Your New Best Friend"

Bringing a puppy into your life is full of excitement, but it also comes with a fair share of responsibility. From chewing shoes to jumping on guests, puppies naturally push boundaries as they explore the world around them. That’s why teaching Puppy Training Commands early on is one of the most important steps you can take as a dog owner.

These commands are more than just obedience tools—they're a way to create structure, keep your puppy safe, and improve your daily interactions. At Upstate Canine Academy, we focus on clear, consistent training methods that help both owners and dogs succeed together.

Below are the top 10 puppy training commands that will set the foundation for a well-behaved and confident dog.

1. Sit – The Foundation of Obedience

"Sit" is one of the easiest and most frequently used commands. It’s a great way to manage your puppy’s excitement, especially during meal times, greetings, or walks.

To teach this, hold a treat close to your pup’s nose, move it slowly upward, and say “Sit” as their bottom hits the floor. Reward them immediately. With repetition, they’ll understand the action and word connection.

2. Stay – Building Patience and Control

Teaching your puppy to "Stay" helps with impulse control and ensures safety in distracting or dangerous situations.

Start by putting your puppy in a sit position, hold your palm out like a stop sign, and say “Stay.” Take a step back. If your puppy holds position, reward with praise or a treat. Gradually increase the distance and time.

This command becomes incredibly helpful when guests arrive, at crosswalks, or during mealtimes.

3. Come – Essential for Safety

One of the most crucial commands, "Come" can protect your dog in off-leash environments or if they slip out of the door unexpectedly.

• Use a long leash in a quiet area

• Say your dog’s name followed by “Come” in a cheerful tone

• Gently guide them toward you

• Reward with enthusiasm and treats when they respond

Always associate “Come” with something positive. Avoid using it only when ending play or calling them away from fun.

4. Place – Creating Calm Spaces

The "Place" command instructs your puppy to go to a specific area and remain there until released. This could be a dog bed, mat, or crate.

It's especially useful when guests come over, during meals, or when you need your pup to settle.

Benefits of the Place command:

• Reduces jumping on visitors

• Provides a safe, quiet spot

• Encourages calm behavior in overstimulating environments

Start by leading your dog to the place, rewarding them for staying, and using a release command like “Break” to let them know they’re done.

5. Leave It – Preventing Dangerous Habits

Whether it’s food on the ground or a tempting shoe, “Leave it” can save your puppy from trouble.

Hold a treat in one hand and show it to your puppy. When they reach for it, say “Leave it” and close your hand. Once they back off or look away, reward with a different treat. This teaches them that ignoring the first temptation brings a better reward.

This command extends to a variety of scenarios, from avoiding unsafe items to ignoring distractions on walks.

6. Down – Encouraging Relaxation

“Down” is used to guide your dog into a lying position and is often harder to teach than “Sit” because it places your pup in a more submissive posture.

Use a treat to lure their nose down to the ground and between their paws. Once your dog lies down, say “Down” and reward.

This command is great for promoting relaxation in public places or managing hyperactive behavior at home.

7. Heel – Enjoyable Leash Walking

Walking a dog that pulls or zigzags can be frustrating. Teaching the "Heel" command ensures your pup walks calmly beside you.

Start by walking with your dog on your left side. Say “Heel” and reward them for staying aligned with your leg. Stop and redirect if they pull ahead.

Eventually, they’ll learn that staying close means the walk continues—and pulling means it stops.

8. Off – Stopping Unwanted Jumping

Jumping may be cute when your dog is small, but it quickly becomes problematic as they grow.

Use “Off” to let your dog know that paws don’t belong on people, furniture, or countertops. Whenever your dog jumps, say “Off” firmly and turn away. Once all paws are on the floor, praise and engage.

Over time, your dog will learn that calm behavior gets attention, while jumping does not.

9. Break – Teaching Release and Freedom

Often overlooked, “Break” is a release command that lets your dog know they are free from a previous command like Sit, Stay, or Place.

Why it matters:

• Provides clarity between commands

• Helps avoid confusion or frustration

• Encourages better duration and focus

Use “Break” consistently to end commands and prevent your dog from deciding on their own when they’re done.

10. Quiet – Controlling Excessive Barking

Puppies bark—it’s part of how they communicate. But constant barking can quickly become a nuisance.

If your dog barks excessively at the door, passersby, or random noises, teaching “Quiet” helps regain control. Wait for a brief moment of silence, say “Quiet,” and reward. You can also pair this with sending them to their “Place” if barking continues.

Consistency and timing are key. Planning a visit? Tap here for directions to our training center on Google Maps.

Building Consistency Through Daily Practice

Consistency is where progress happens. Use short, focused training sessions each day to reinforce these commands. Repetition builds memory—and patience builds trust.

Here’s how to integrate training into your day:

• Practice “Sit” and “Stay” during feeding times

• Use “Place” when guests visit

• Reinforce “Come” during play

• Try “Leave it” on walks

• Use “Quiet” for doorbell desensitization

Remember, progress varies with every dog. Celebrate small wins and stay patient through challenges.

Final Thoughts: Why Puppy Training Commands Matter

Teaching Puppy Training Commands gives your dog the structure they crave and the tools you need for a peaceful household. The earlier you begin, the better your chances of avoiding long-term behavioral issues.

These commands aren’t just about obedience—they’re about communication, safety, and building a strong connection with your furry friend. At Upstate Canine Academy, we believe that well-trained dogs lead to happier homes.

If you're ready to begin your training journey but unsure where to start, we’re here to help. Our training programs offer practical, results-based methods taught by experienced professionals. Whether your pup is just starting or needs help correcting behavior, guidance is just a step away.

📍 Visit Upstate Canine Academy to book a session or learn more about our in-person and virtual training options.