Bringing home a new puppy is an exciting adventure — full of cuddles, playtime, and plenty of learning. But one of the most important things you can do as a new dog owner is start training early. The right habits now will shape your puppy into a happy, well-adjusted adult dog. Here are five essential tips to help you (and your pup) start strong: 1. Start Early, Stay Consistent: Puppies begin learning from day one, so it’s important to start training as soon as they come home. Use clear, simple commands like sit, stay, and come, and repeat them regularly. Consistency builds confidence and helps your puppy understand what's expected — especially when the whole family is on the same page. 2. Use Positive Reinforcement: Reward-based training is not only more effective — it’s more enjoyable for both of you. Treats, praise, and playtime help reinforce good behavior and strengthen your bond. Choose small, healthy treats that are easy for puppies to digest. (Pro tip: pair rewards with a high-quality puppy diet, like Royal Canin’s Puppy formulas, to support learning and development from the inside out.) 3. Socialize Early and Often: The first few months of a puppy’s life are crucial for social development. Safely introduce your pup to new people, other dogs, different environments, and everyday sounds. Puppy classes or short trips to pet-friendly places can help them build confidence and reduce anxiety later in life. 4. Establish a Routine: Dogs love structure — and puppies especially benefit from a regular schedule. Set consistent times for feeding, potty breaks, training, and play. A predictable routine makes housetraining easier and helps your puppy settle into their new home. Feeding a balanced, breed- and size-specific puppy food like Royal Canin can also help regulate digestion and energy levels throughout the day. 5. Be Patient and Stay Positive: Training takes time. Some days will be easier than others — and that’s okay. Puppies are constantly learning, and setbacks are part of the process. Stay positive, keep sessions short and fun, and remember: your encouragement means the world to your pup. Final Thoughts: Training a puppy can be challenging, but it’s also one of the most rewarding parts of pet parenthood. With the right mix of consistency, patience, and quality nutrition, you’ll be giving your pup the best possible start in life. Looking for the right food to support your puppy’s training and development? Royal Canin offers breed-specific and size-specific formulas tailored to their unique nutritional needs — because every puppy deserves a healthy beginning.