Always use short, strong words for commands and always use the same word or words for the same command. Demand the dog’s undivided attention; if she wavers or wanders, speak her name or jerk her leash. Use pats and praise plentifully; avoid tidbit training if at all possible because tidbits may not always be available in an emergency and the dog will learn better without them. Keep lessons short; when the dog begins to show boredom, stop and do not resume in less than 2 hours. One or two 10-minute lessons a day should be ample, especially for a young puppy. Dogs have their good days and their bad days; if your well dog seems unduly lazy, tired, bored or off-color, put off the lesson until tomorrow. Try to make lessons a joy, a happy time for both of you, but do demand and get the desired action.
Puppies from 7-10 weeks of age have no innate impressions of training; their slates are basically clean. With brain waves already at their adult level, they lack only experience.