A puppy’s journey is full of excitement and learning, especially in the first two years, which are vital for shaping their behavior and understanding of the world. During this period, puppies are eager to soak up everything, so focusing on essential lessons will help them become loving, confident, and well-behaved adult dogs. In this article, we’ll cover 12 crucial things every dog should know before turning two.

1. Socialization with Other Dogs and People

Socializing your puppy with other dogs and people is one of the most important things you can do for their development. Early socialization helps puppies feel comfortable and secure in different environments, reducing the likelihood of fear or aggression. Introduce them to people of various ages and dogs of different sizes. The more positive interactions they have, the better they’ll handle new situations. Dog parks, training classes, and playdates are great ways to ensure proper socialization. Helping your puppy experience new things will prepare them to grow into a friendly, well-adjusted adult dog.

2. Basic Obedience Commands

Teaching basic obedience commands like “sit,” “stay,” “come,” and “down” is essential for your puppy’s safety and discipline. These commands create structure and provide a sense of security, laying the foundation for more advanced training. Practice these commands regularly, using positive reinforcement like treats or praise to keep your puppy engaged. A well-trained puppy will be easier to manage and more confident in various situations. Make training fun and rewarding, ensuring your puppy stays interested in learning.

3. Potty Training

Potty training is crucial for developing your puppy’s hygiene habits and self-control. Establish a consistent routine, especially after meals, playtime, and naps. Crate training can help, as dogs prefer not to soil their sleeping area. Reward your puppy with praise or treats when they go in the right spot. With patience and consistency, your puppy will learn when and where it’s appropriate to relieve themselves, making accidents less frequent and reinforcing good habits.

4. Walking on a Leash

Leash training is important for both your puppy’s safety and your peace of mind during walks. Without training, walks can be frustrating, with pulling or wandering. Start with short walks in quiet areas using a properly fitted harness or collar. Encourage your puppy to stay by your side with gentle guidance and reward good behavior with treats. Gradually extend the length of your walks as they improve. A well-trained puppy will enjoy walking with you, making outdoor adventures more enjoyable for both of you.

5. Crate Training

Crate training provides your puppy with a safe and comfortable space of their own. It’s also helpful for potty training and reducing destructive behavior. Introduce the crate by placing toys, treats, or blankets inside and allow your puppy to explore it at their own pace. The crate should be a positive, secure place, not used for punishment. Over time, your puppy will associate the crate with comfort and relaxation, giving them a place to feel safe and calm when they need alone time.

6. Bite Inhibition

Puppies explore the world with their mouths, but it’s important to teach them bite inhibition early. Bite inhibition means learning to control the force of their bite, which is crucial for safe interactions with people and other animals. If your puppy bites too hard, stop playtime and give them a chance to calm down. Redirect their biting to appropriate toys. Consistency is key—if your puppy bites too hard, pause the fun. Over time, they’ll learn to control their bite and play safely.

7. Handling and Grooming Tolerance

Getting your puppy comfortable with being handled is important for grooming and vet visits. Start by gently touching their ears, paws, and mouth, rewarding them with praise and treats. Once they’re comfortable with basic handling, introduce grooming tools like brushes or nail clippers. Regular exposure to handling reduces stress during routine care, making tasks like brushing or nail trimming easier. This training will help them stay calm and cooperative during grooming and vet visits, keeping them healthy and well-maintained.

8. Staying Calm in New Environments

New environments can be overwhelming for puppies, but teaching them to remain calm builds their confidence. Gradually expose your puppy to different settings, such as parks, busy streets, or friends’ homes, rewarding calm behavior with treats or praise. Start in low-stress environments and gradually introduce more stimulating places. A puppy that’s comfortable in new surroundings will be less anxious and more adaptable, helping them handle unfamiliar situations with ease.

9. Recall Training

Recall training is essential for your puppy’s safety, especially when off-leash. Teaching your puppy to come when called helps keep them safe and out of danger. Begin in a quiet area, using their name or a command like “come,” and reward them with treats or praise when they respond. Gradually introduce distractions as they improve. A strong recall builds trust and ensures your puppy listens to you, even in busy or off-leash environments, keeping them safe during outdoor activities.

10. Not Jumping on People

Jumping might seem cute when your puppy is small, but it can become problematic as they grow. Teaching your puppy not to jump on people helps ensure polite greetings. When they jump, ignore them until all four paws are on the ground, then reward calm behavior with attention or treats. Over time, your puppy will learn that staying calm is more rewarding, helping prevent issues like knocking over visitors or strangers as they mature.

11. Sharing Toys and Food

Teaching your puppy to share toys and food helps prevent resource guarding, a behavior where dogs become possessive of their belongings. Start by gently taking toys or food away and rewarding your puppy when they remain calm. Gradually introduce this practice to help them learn that sharing is positive and that their resources aren’t threatened. As they become less possessive, it will improve their interactions with other dogs and people, reducing the likelihood of conflict over toys or food.

12. Confidence Building

Building your puppy’s confidence is key to their development. Expose them to different sights, sounds, and experiences, making sure each new challenge is rewarding with praise, toys, or treats. Helping your puppy overcome small obstacles like stairs or learning new tricks will boost their confidence. A confident puppy will approach new experiences with curiosity rather than fear, helping them grow into a well-rounded, adaptable adult dog.