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100 Days to a Decade of Joy: Master Puppy Training for Lifelong Success.

The Start of a Journey


The first few months with your puppy are more than just cuddles and chaos. They are a once-in-a-lifetime window that can shape your dog’s entire future.


As a certified behaviourist and dog trainer, I know that the first months of your puppy's life can either set the foundation for a balanced, confident companion or lead to years of behavioural challenges.


This post will walk you through everything I teach my clients during this critical stage. From mindset to milestones, including routines, socialization, trust-building, and more. Whether you’re a new pet parent or are preparing to, this is your roadmap to raising a happy, well-behaved dog.


Why the First 100 Days Matter More Than You Think


Between 8 to 16 weeks, your puppy experiences a stage of life known as the critical window. Their brain is a sponge, soaking in every interaction and forming associations that last a lifetime.


This is when:

  • Fear responses are formed

  • Trust in humans and other animals is established

  • Habits (good or bad) take root

  • Learning is rapid


Ignoring this stage often results in nervous, reactive, or poorly adjusted adult dogs.


That’s why I always tell my clients that training is about raising a future adult.


So Before You Even Bring Them Home make sure:

  • You have a designated puppy-proofed space (crates, gates, play pens)

  • Your family is aligned on training rules (e.g., no jumping, feeding rules)

  • You’ve identified a vet, trainer, behaviourist, dog walker, sitter,and groomer etc .,

  • You understand your puppy’s breed needs 


The 5 Key Pillars


1. Socialization. Help your dog become resilient and curious, not fearful.Expose your puppy to:

  • Friendly adult dogs (vaccinated)

  • Strangers (men, women, kids)

  • Sounds (doorbell, vacuum, sirens)

  • Surfaces (grass, tile, carpet, vet’s table)


2. Routine. Puppies thrive on predictability. Set consistent times for:

  • Wake up & toilet breaks

  • Feeding

  • Nap times (yes, they need 18+ hrs of sleep!)

  • Training/play

  • Sleep


3. Foundational Obedience. Start with basic cues:

  • Name recall

  • Sit

  • Stay

  • Leave it


4. Handling & Touch Tolerance. Get your puppy used to being touched gently on:

  • Paws

  • Ears

  • Belly

  • Mouth


5. Crate Training & Alone Time

Teach your dog that the crate is a safe, calm space not punishment. Introduce short durations of alone time to avoid separation anxiety later.


Dogs aren’t born understanding us, we must teach them with compassion and clarity.



Conclusion: The Puppy You Raise Today Becomes the Dog You Live With Tomorrow

Every puppy is a clean slate, full of potential, curiosity, and love. When you invest time, patience, and the right methods you’re nurturing a lifelong companion.

Want help navigating these first months? Schedule a free 30-minute consultation and let’s talk about your puppy’s unique journey.


 
 
 

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