What Is the Best Age to Start Training a Bernedoodle Puppy?
If you’re asking, what is the best age to start training a Bernedoodle puppy?, the short answer is: as early as possible. Starting training early lays a solid foundation for good behavior, socialization, and a strong bond between you and your puppy.
This article will explain why early training is vital, the ideal training milestones, and how to approach training at different puppy stages for the best results.
Key Takeaways
- Training your Bernedoodle puppy should begin as soon as you bring them home, often between 8 to 10 weeks old.
- Early socialization between 3 and 14 weeks is critical for confidence and good behavior.
- Basic commands and house training should start in the first few weeks.
- Consistency, positive reinforcement, and short training sessions are key for puppies.
- Delaying training can lead to behavioral issues that are harder to correct later.
Why Start Training Early?
1. Puppies Are Like Sponges
During their early weeks, Bernedoodle puppies are incredibly receptive to new experiences. This window is the best time to teach good habits and expose them to different sights, sounds, people, and other animals.
2. Preventing Bad Habits
Starting training early helps prevent undesirable behaviors such as biting, excessive barking, and jumping. Puppies learn quickly what is expected of them.
3. Builds a Strong Bond
Training sessions create positive interactions and communication between you and your Bernedoodle, strengthening your relationship.
Recommended Training Timeline
8 to 10 Weeks: Welcome Home and Start Training
- Begin house training and crate training immediately.
- Teach simple commands like “sit,” “come,” and “leave it.”
- Start gentle handling and basic grooming to get your puppy comfortable.
3 to 14 Weeks: Critical Socialization Period
- Introduce your puppy to a variety of people, pets, and environments.
- Continue positive exposure to new experiences to prevent fearfulness.
12 to 16 Weeks: Advanced Commands and Leash Training
- Work on leash walking, “stay,” and “down.”
- Increase the length and complexity of training sessions gradually.
Tips for Successful Early Training
- Keep sessions short and fun (5–10 minutes) to maintain attention.
- Use positive reinforcement such as treats, praise, and toys.
- Be patient and consistent—training is a gradual process.
- Avoid harsh punishments which can damage trust and slow progress.
- Enroll in puppy classes for structured learning and socialization.
Conclusion
The best age to start training a Bernedoodle puppy is right from the moment they join your family, typically around 8 to 10 weeks old. Early, gentle, and consistent training sets your puppy up for a lifetime of good behavior and happiness. Embrace this crucial stage with positive reinforcement and plenty of patience.
For more detailed puppy training resources, visit Adopt Elite Puppies.
Frequently Asked Question
Can I start training my Bernedoodle puppy before 8 weeks?
While formal training usually begins after 8 weeks, very gentle handling and exposure to sights and sounds can start earlier, especially if you’re working with breeders or shelters who encourage early socialization.
