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How to Teach ‘Sit’, ‘Stay’ and ‘Come’ – First Commands for Puppies (Vet-Approved Basics) 🔄🐶 (2025 Edition)

  • 36 days ago
  • 3 min read

    In this article

How to Teach ‘Sit’, ‘Stay’ and ‘Come’ – First Commands for Puppies (Vet-Approved Basics) 🔄🐶 (2025 Edition)

🎓 Introduction: Start Smart, Start Simple

Teaching your puppy their first commands sets the tone for lifelong training. Done right, it builds trust, communication, and impulse control. 🐾

In this article, we’ll cover:

  • ✅ When to start basic training
  • 🪄 How to teach ‘sit’, ‘stay’ and ‘come’ step-by-step
  • 🧠 Vet tips to avoid common mistakes
  • 🔹 How Ask A Vet, Woopf, and Purrz make it easier

1. When Can You Start Training? ⏰

Puppies can start learning at 7–8 weeks old. Their brains are like sponges, so it’s the perfect time to teach simple cues and build positive habits through short, fun sessions. 🐶✨

2. Teaching ‘Sit’, ‘Stay’ and ‘Come’ Step-by-Step 🌟

✅ Sit

  • Hold a treat near your pup’s nose, then move it up slowly
  • As their bottom hits the floor, say “sit” and give the treat
  • Practice 3–5 reps per session, with lots of praise 🎉

✅ Stay

  • Ask for “sit” first, then hold your palm up and say “stay”
  • Take one step back, return, and reward if your pup holds position
  • Increase distance and duration slowly, always ending on success ✨

✅ Come

  • Start in a safe, enclosed space
  • Crouch and say “come!” in a happy tone
  • Reward generously when they reach you 🏆

3. Common Mistakes to Avoid ❌

  • ⚠️ Repeating the command over and over
  • 🚫 Calling your puppy only to end fun (they’ll stop coming)
  • ❌ Using punishment or harsh corrections

4. How Ask A Vet, Woopf & Purrz Help with Training 💡

  • 🛰️ Ask A Vet: Get real-time training advice from a licensed vet
  • 🍖 Woopf: Use treat-dispensing toys and positive reinforcement tools
  • 📊 Purrz: Log sessions, set goals, and track cue mastery

5. Final Thoughts from Dr. Duncan Houston BVSc 👩‍⚕️

The first commands are more than obedience—they're the foundation for a calm, connected life together. Be patient, make it fun, and don’t worry about perfection. Every puppy learns at their own pace. 🐕💛

Ask A Vet is here when you need backup, and Woopf and Purrz bring the joy back to training sessions!

Warmly,
Dr. Duncan Houston BVSc

🔗 Visit AskAVet.com and download the Ask A Vet app for personalized puppy training support, tips, and expert advice on every cue.
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Dog Approved
Build to Last
Easy to Clean
Vet-Designed & Tested
Adventure-ready
Quality Tested & Trusted