What Is the Best Age to Board and Train a Puppy?

8 Weeks of Age

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Puppies are highly impressionable at this age and can learn a great deal from other dogs. Unfortunately, this could lead to negative behaviors like phobias or aggression in the future. Now is the perfect time to begin introducing them to new smells and sights so they can develop into an all-around pup! Take them on exciting journeys such as parks, pet stores, hardware stores - anything that will excite them! Be sure to work on impulse control by getting them to wait before eating or drinking water, and using reward-based training methods. This will help them become calm and relaxed so that you can teach them what you want them to do in any situation!

12 Weeks of Age

At 12 weeks, your puppy should have all the vaccinations they require to begin training and will be confident walking on a leash. They'll also possess good manners and follow an organized schedule which includes feeding/potty breaks, playtime with other pups, and training sessions. Positive reinforcement, such as treats or toys, to reward good behavior will help your pup learn faster and stay on task. Puppies make many correct choices every day; therefore, it's essential to watch for them and reward them when they do so. When your puppy makes a poor choice, such as chewing furniture or jumping on people, you may be tempted to punish them; however, this only creates fear and confusion. Instead, try working with your pup so they understand the desired behavior and why it matters!

16 Weeks of Age

Your puppy is eager to learn at this stage, and socialization and training can lay a strong foundation for future behaviors. Certified dog trainer Kate Naito - AKC Canine Good Citizen Evaluator and Manners Program Director at Doggie Academy - recommends that puppies be exposed to their environment before beginning obedience training. She emphasizes that puppies are mentally ready to learn at around eight weeks old. Delaying obedience training until then can adversely impact how puppies learn in the world and make teaching them basic manners like coming when called or dropping their toys harder.

18 Months of Age

No time is too late to start training your dog, even if you're facing behavior issues. Experts agree that it is never too early to teach your pup basic obedience commands - even if it has been several months since you brought him home. It is never too late to begin agility or other types of competitive training. However, it's best to wait until your puppy has grown sufficiently and received all vaccinations before considering sending him away to a boarding facility.