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First Things to Teach a New Puppy: Name + Come

What is the first thing I should teach my new puppy?

Answer

The first thing to teach a new puppy is their name, followed immediately by a simple “come” cue. Name recognition becomes the foundation for every other lesson because it helps your puppy quickly understand when you’re talking to them. Pair it with “come” so you can guide your puppy away from trouble, build trust, and start creating a habit of checking in with you.

Start in a quiet room with no distractions. Say your puppy’s name once in a cheerful tone. The moment they look at you, mark it with “yes” (or a clicker) and give a small treat. Repeat for 1–2 minutes, a few times a day. Once they’re reliably turning to you, add “come” as they move toward you from just a step away. Reward generously and keep it upbeat.

To keep progress steady, avoid using your puppy’s name to scold or to end fun (like calling them and immediately putting them in a crate for a long time). You want the name to predict good things: attention, treats, play, and safety.

After your puppy is responding to name + “come,” the next high-value early skills are potty training routines, gentle handling (ears, paws, mouth), and basic “sit” for polite greetings. For a fuller step-by-step plan and common training mistakes to avoid, visit the complete guide here: What is the first thing I should teach my new puppy?.

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For First Things to Teach a New Puppy: Name + Come, the best answer depends on fit, material, care instructions, and how the product will be used day to day.

FAQ

How do I stop my puppy from biting?

Redirect biting to a chew toy immediately, then reward calm play. If biting continues, end interaction for 10–20 seconds (stand up or step away) and restart when your puppy is calmer, repeating consistently.