The Best Time To Start Training Your Dog
Kind of a trick question
7/24/20251 min read


So, What's the BEST Time to Start Training Your Dog?
Great question. I’m glad you asked.
But it’s really a trick question.
There's really 2 answers to that question.
The first is the scientifically correct answer.
The time when dogs brains are most susceptible to learning new things is up to 4 1/2 months.
Developmentally, just like human children, this is when their brains are just soaking up new information.
This is one reason puppy class is so important.
Taking advantage of this time makes training so much easier. Sets them, and yourself, up to succeed. Work smart - not hard.
All training done before the 5 month mark is like money in the bank. It is an investment that pays you back the rest of your dog's life. Important behaviors like socialization, temperament and come should be mastered by the time your dog reaches adolescence.
Often, especially with rescue dogs, they aren't adopted until well past this age milestone.
So the second, real world answer to the question of the best time to train your dog is - NOW!!
The further away from the 5 month point the more difficult it becomes to modify behavior. Additionally the more opportunity your dog has for inappropriate behavior to become a habit.
So the ideal time to train your dog is up to 4 1/2 to 5 months.
The best time to train your dog is now.
If you aren't sure what to do or how to get started, please email me at cindy@thedogsetc.com or give me a call or text me at (714)393-0432.
Let’s get you and your dog started.
The sooner you start - the sooner you get that dog of your dreams.
Behave,
Cindy