There’s something incredibly special about bringing home a puppy. It’s a feeling that can be hard to describe to non-dog owners. I don’t need to convince most of my readers of this fact. So this post is going to focus on how you can make this period as enjoyable and effective as possible. Knowing what to expect in the first 12 months can relieve some of the stress and set up a solid foundation for a well-behaved dog. Here’s a month-by-month breakdown of what to work on with your Goldendoodle puppy, plus product recommendations for each phase. Let’s get into it!
Month 1-2: Socialization and Basic Commands
The first few months are essential for socialization. Your Goldendoodle puppy is like a sponge, absorbing everything in their environment. Start with gentle introductions to various people, places, and other pets.
Focus Areas:
- Housebreaking: Set a consistent potty schedule and take your puppy outside frequently.
- Socialization: Introduce them to new sounds, sights, and gentle handling.
- Basic Commands: Begin teaching commands like “sit” and “stay.”
Product Suggestion: Puppy Training Pads are helpful for indoor potty training when outside isn’t an option.
Super absorbent dog pee pads. Great for rainy days or apartment dwellers.
Month 3-4: Leash Training and Recall
At this stage, your Goldendoodle should start understanding simple commands. Now’s the time to introduce leash training and recall, helping your puppy learn to walk politely and come when called.
Focus Areas:
- Leash Training: Use a comfortable harness to start leash training.
- Recall Practice: Teach them to respond to their name and come when called.
- Continued Socialization: Ensure positive experiences with new people and animals.
Product Suggestion: A sturdy adjustable puppy harness makes leash training more comfortable and controlled.
The Voyager Step-In Air Dog Harness offers a comfortable, breathable fit for daily walks. Easy to put on, this adjustable harness provides security without restricting your dog’s movement.
Month 5-6: Advanced Commands and Crate Training
As your puppy matures, they’re ready for more challenging commands. Consistency is key to reinforcing their training, so keep sessions short and positive.
Focus Areas:
- Advanced Commands: Begin teaching commands like “down,” “leave it,” and “drop it.”
- Crate Training: Encourage your Goldendoodle to view their crate as a safe space for rest.
- Impulse Control: Work on reducing jumping, chewing, and play biting.
Product Suggestion: A comfortable crate helps your puppy feel secure and aids in potty training. Grab a memory foam bed to go inside the crate.
This crate is an excellent choice. Not only is it durable, but it is easy to take down and transport when you need to drop your doggy off at a dog-sitter for a few days.
Bedsure Memory Foam Dog Bed provides orthopedic support with waterproof memory foam, a removable washable cover, and nonskid bottom—perfect for large dogs' comfort.
Month 7-8: Reinforcement and Longer Walks
By now, your Goldendoodle is more active and curious. They’ll benefit from longer walks and more focused training sessions to reinforce what they’ve learned.
Focus Areas:
- Loose Leash Walking: Continue to reinforce good leash behavior.
- Stay and Wait Commands: Improve patience with “stay” and “wait.”
- Physical Exercise: Engage in play sessions and explore new environments together.
Product Suggestion: An interactive training treat pouch makes it easy to reward good behavior on the go.
The Heouvo Dog Training Treat Pouch keeps treats handy with a secure magnetic closure and spill-proof design. It’s perfect for hands-free, mess-free training sessions.
Month 9-10: Off-Leash Skills and Social Manners
As your puppy becomes more confident, you can practice off-leash skills and polish social behaviors. Be sure to monitor their behavior and keep reinforcing boundaries.
Focus Areas:
- Off-Leash Training: Work on recall in safe, enclosed spaces.
- Social Etiquette: Teach appropriate greetings with both humans and dogs.
- Reduce Barking: Reinforce “quiet” to curb any excessive barking habits.
Product Suggestion: A reliable long training lead allows safe off-leash practice and control.
The Hi-Kiss Long Training Lead is ideal for outdoor obedience training, providing freedom for your dog while allowing you control. Durable and tangle-free, it's perfect for recall training and agility exercises.
Month 11-12: Consistency and New Challenges
As your Goldendoodle approaches their first year, focus on consistency and introduce fun challenges to keep their minds sharp. They’ll have developed strong bonds with you and will likely enjoy learning new tricks.
Focus Areas:
- Strengthen Recall: Continue off-leash training in controlled environments.
- Obstacle Courses: Introduce agility exercises or fun games.
- Calmness and Self-Control: Reinforce calm behavior in busy or new places.
Product Suggestion: An interactive puzzle toy keeps your Goldendoodle engaged and mentally stimulated.
Outward Hound Nina Ottosson Dog Brick Puzzle challenges and entertains your dog with treat-hiding compartments, promoting mental stimulation and enrichment.
Goldendoodle Training Tips
- Consistency is Key: Set a regular schedule for feeding, potty breaks, and training.
- Positive Reinforcement: Reward good behavior with treats, toys, or praise.
- Short Sessions: Keep training sessions brief but frequent to prevent boredom.
- Use a Variety of Rewards: Mix treats, praise, and play as rewards to keep your Goldendoodle motivated.
Recommended Training Products for Your Goldendoodle
| Training Product | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Puppy Training Pads | Indoor potty training for young puppies |
| Adjustable Puppy Harness | Comfortable leash training |
| Crate | Safe space and effective for housebreaking |
| Treat Pouch | Easy access to rewards during training sessions |
| Long Training Lead | Safe off-leash practice for recall training |
| Puzzle Toy | Mental stimulation and prevents boredom |
Final Thoughts
The first 12 months with your Goldendoodle puppy are crucial for building a lifelong bond. By sticking to a consistent training schedule and investing in essential tools, you can ensure a happy, well-behaved Goldendoodle who’s ready for any adventure.
Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links, meaning I earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase. This is at no additional cost to you and helps support the content and resources provided on the site.
