Training a Goldendoodle puppy can be a fun and rewarding experience, especially when you understand how to use their intelligence and eagerness to learn to your advantage. Below are the 10 most crucial Goldendoodle training tips every new owner needs to follow. By implementing these methods early on, you’ll build a solid foundation for a well-behaved, happy, and healthy dog.
1. Start Training Early
Goldendoodles are fast learners, but to truly take advantage of this, it’s important to start training the moment you bring your puppy home. The earlier you begin with basic commands like “sit” and “stay,” the quicker your puppy will adapt to your expectations. Establishing boundaries early prevents bad habits from forming.
2. Use Positive Reinforcement
Goldendoodles respond exceptionally well to positive reinforcement. Reward-based training methods using treats, praise, and toys will strengthen good behaviors. For example, immediately reward your puppy when they follow a command like “sit” to reinforce the connection between the action and the reward.
Pro Tip: Keep small, tasty treats handy for training sessions. Timing is everything! Aim to reward your dog within 6 seconds of the desired behavior. We’ve included a link to one of our favorite training treats.
Why? Blue Buffalo makes natural and healthy treats, and the 19-oz bag is larger (and often cheaper) than comparable products on Amazon.
3. Keep Training Sessions Short and Fun
Goldendoodles, especially puppies, can get distracted or bored quickly. Keep training sessions between 10 to 15 minutes long to maintain their attention. You can fit multiple short sessions into your day to reinforce skills while keeping things fun and engaging.
Bonus: Interactive toys and games like fetch can also be used as training tools while helping burn off some of that Goldendoodle energy!
This is our Goldendoodle’s favorite fetch toy. And it happens to be the “#1 Best Seller” in dog flying discs on Amazon. He goes through them pretty quick. So we like to get a couple of them.
Our dog goes crazy for these soft, flying discs. We like to have a couple lying around at any given time because they don't last forever.
4. Socialization is Key
To raise a well-adjusted dog, make sure your Goldendoodle gets plenty of socialization. Expose them to a variety of environments, sounds, people, and other dogs. Early socialization helps prevent behavior issues down the line and boosts your puppy’s confidence.
Tip: Puppy classes are a fantastic way to combine training with socialization in a controlled environment.
5. Crate Training for Safety and Comfort
Crate training is one of the most effective tools for housebreaking your Goldendoodle. A properly introduced crate becomes your dog’s safe space, where they can rest and feel secure. It also helps with potty training, as dogs naturally avoid soiling their sleeping area.
This crate is notably easy to set up and take down. Simply select your desired size from a wide range of options.
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.
6. Establish a Training Routine
Like many of us, dogs thrive on routine, and Goldendoodles are no exception. Consistency is key when training a puppy. Set up a daily training schedule to work on commands and skills at the same time each day. This predictability helps your Goldendoodle know what to expect, making them more receptive to learning. It will also be hugely beneficial for you as the trainer.
7. Teach Basic Commands Early
Basic commands such as “sit,” “stay,” “come,” and “leave it” are crucial for every dog to learn. Start with these commands as soon as possible, using treats and praise to reward success. Consistency is important, so use the same commands and hand gestures every time.
Pro Tip: Always reinforce good behavior immediately with a reward to build a strong association. Positive reinforcement is often more powerful than negative reinforcement.
8. Leash Training for Walks
Goldendoodles love to walk, but they also have a lot of energy, which can lead to pulling on the leash. Teach your dog to walk politely on a leash by using positive reinforcement whenever they walk next to you without pulling. A harness may be more comfortable than a collar for leash training.
With its front clip design, this harness is a great option for teaching a dog not to pull while on leash. It is clearly labeled, making it easy to put on.
9. Address Unwanted Behaviors Early
Goldendoodles are smart, but this also means they can quickly pick up unwanted habits like jumping on guests or chewing on furniture. Address these behaviors immediately using a firm “no” followed by redirecting their attention to appropriate behaviors. Offering them chew toys or rewarding them when they greet calmly can reinforce good manners.
10. Patience and Consistency are Crucial
Training a Goldendoodle is a marathon, not a sprint. Consistency and patience are crucial, especially when things don’t go as planned. Celebrate small victories and keep your sessions positive. Remember that building a well-behaved dog takes time, but the rewards of a well-trained companion are worth it.
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