An obedient puppy receiving expert puppy training in Cleveland, OH from DTE.

Professional

Puppy Training

Dog Training Elite in Cleveland Metro

Request Free Assessment


Request Free Assessment


Our Puppy Training Could Help:

Leash and potty training
Food guarding and begging
Destructive chewing and digging
Stealing food, clothing, or other objects
Barking, howling and whining
Aggression and anxiety
Jumping and hyperactivity

Dog Training Elite

Expert Cleveland Puppy Trainers

Bringing home a new puppy is exciting, but it also comes with challenges like chewing and accidents. The most common mistake new owners make is underestimating the knowledge, commitment, and effort needed to train a new puppy.

Once a puppy begins to grow, its energy can quickly feel unmanageable. It’s all too common that a well-meaning and loving family takes on a puppy lacking the knowledge and skills to train correctly. This often results in overwhelmed owners rehoming or taking these puppies to local shelters, feeling the puppy’s disposition is bad or simply that they are not cut out to be dog owners.

At Dog Training Elite, we focus on building that bond through effective training to foster trust and communication. Our experienced Cleveland puppy trainers use proven methods to help you and your puppy succeed together.

See Training Packages
A little puppy sitting in grass, contact Dog Training Elite in Cleveland Metro today.

Puppy Essentials Webinar

Free 70-Minute video

$45 Value

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Our trusted puppy class is now available "on-demand" from the comfort of your home! This webinar video is designed for owners of puppies age 8-16 weeks old, and will be accessible to you for free after completing the form below or with the purchase of one of our puppy packages!

Access Webinar

Our webinar includes education on the following topics:
  • Introducing a new puppy to your home
  • Health & well-being
  • Veterinary care & vaccines
  • Nurturing a good temperament
  • Scruffing & calming signals (e.g. dog yoga)
  • Basic Treat Obedience Including: Come, sit, loose-leash walking, and down
  • Puppy Corrections (Stop biting, digging, jumping, etc.)
  • Crate Training / Housebreaking
  • Socialization Tips
  • Environmental Hazards
  • Puppy Enrichment
  • Caring for Your Puppy
Three puppies receiving expert training from Dog Training Elite in Cleveland Metro.

The Importance of Puppy Training


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Almost everyone and everything a puppy will encounter will be brand new, which can be exciting. However, puppies may not know how to respond positively and safely to new experiences without proper training. That's why Dog Training Elite believes in starting puppy training as soon as possible, so you and your pup can bond and start your adventures on the right foot!

Training the DTE way provides puppies and owners with a nurturing environment where they can learn to communicate and trust each other. Puppies have an innate desire to please, so training can be fun and even easy! Of course, it can be daunting to try and figure out how to make puppies understand concepts like potty training or commands like sit and stay on your own. That's where puppy training comes in.

Keeping a puppy safe should be the number one priority of new dog owners. By working with puppy trainers in, new puppy owners can learn how to teach their pup both basic and complex obedience skills effectively. Training a pup to be home alone, walk on a leash, wait on the threshold, and avoid consuming non-edible objects will help keep them safe when out of sight.

Get Your Free Assessment

You and your canine companion really can have it all. See how easy it can be to become a member of the elite pup society by requesting a free consultation today!

Hear From Our Customers

Learn Why Dog owners choose Dog Training Elite

  • George Janca
    Mar. 7, 2025
    Having had two previous pups I thought this girl would be easily trained by me. That was not so. Thanks loads to Kevin for helping me understand the training methods used and to all the great people at Elite. I was very sensitive to make certain that the training would be pain and punishment free. The patience and care shown to train my Beagle mix 2 year old and to train me was and is outstanding. From a wild pulling strong willed pup to my compliant walking companion is miraculous. And accomplished simply with the gentle ‘tapping’ reminders, lots of love and encouragement and treat rewards. Thanks again all!
  • Robin Strong
    Apr. 24, 2025
    My three year old Aussie went through their in person Platinum Elite Training Camp, she is dealing with a lot of reactivity and aggression and the whole team has made such an impact on her. Kevin, Andrea and Dennis were all so helpful with my dog Nova’s training, and mine! Nova is very selective with the people she likes and she gets excited whenever she sees any of the team from Dog Training Elite. I know we will have support when needed in the future and really look forward to ongoing group classes to help keep Nova properly socialized, obedient and happy.
  • jen
    Apr. 20, 2025
    We can’t say enough about this training facility. Catie and Louie loved attending class daily- and we were so impressed by both the facility itself and the training staff. We would highly recommend. Money well spent! - Barbara and Ron Sherman
  • Barbara
    Apr. 19, 2025
    A huge Thank You to Kevin, Andrea and Dennis of Dog Training Elite Northeast Ohio for what they were able to accomplish in training my 5 month old pup Trace. In a very short amount of time all of my serious concerns were addressed. Their expertise was evident but more importantly to me was the kindness and care showed to both Trace and myself. I am so happy to have found them!
  • Kelly Smith
    Apr. 19, 2025
    The trainers at Dog Training Elite Greater Cleveland demonstrated exceptional patience, encouragement, consistency, kindness, and humor throughout all of our in home training sessions. Our five year old doodle went from being reactive to most everything on walks and the TV to being an eager to learn and non-reactive pup. We enjoy our walks now and look forward to continuing our training with group classes.
  • Andrea Shkilevich
    Apr. 18, 2025
    I cannot say enough great things about Dog Training Elite Greater Cleveland (North Olmsted location)! The techniques work beautifully and we noticed a huge (positive) difference in our pups behavior after the first day of in-facility training. She has kept her spunky and unique personality but knows boundaries now. They gave us a way to communicate with her, which has brought us all closer... it's priceless! The whole operation is well organized and professional, and the team is kind, patient, accommodating and dedicated. They truly love what they do... and the proof is in the results. Our pup is happy, well behaved and thriving. My husband and I could not be happier with our experience!
  • Janice Smith
    Apr. 2, 2025
    Josh has done an outstanding job with my Samson I have learned to be firm but loving toward Samson I would definitely remocomed Dog Training Elite to all my friends.
  • Guido Carbone
    Mar. 25, 2025
    Guido and I are So happy we chose Dog Training Elite. It's Amazing how 2 weeks of Dog Training with our 4 or 5 month old boxer mix. Andrea, Kevin, Dennis, Agent K....everyone there love their profession and are Great at it! 🩷🩵🩷🩵 And their support doesn't end there. Do you And your Pup and learn these methods! Jody
  • Kent Heckel
    Mar. 29, 2025
    Just finished the extra outdoor session that is free once your dog finish the course. It was absolutely excellent. Not only to keep up with the training we learned, but to have my dog around other dogs who have been through the program to reinforce that learning was awesome. I am so impressed with this business & I really recommend this place for you and your family 🐶
  • Sarah Courtad
    Mar. 28, 2025
    We were referred to Dog Training Elite Greater Cleveland because of their expertise with rescue dogs and their support after formal training. We rescued our 3 year-old Golden Retriever from a puppy mill breeder and struggled with basic obedience training. Her lack of socialization was causing behavioral issues, and we needed help ASAP. We decided to enroll her in their 2-week camp, and we are thrilled with her progress! Before training, we were anxious about taking her outside, but just three weeks after camp, we're visiting parks and even letting her off-leash. Her leash reactivity has significantly improved, and we continue attending weekly group classes to further progress. We're incredibly grateful for the team's support and ongoing help!
  • Cyndi Tomassetti
    Mar. 26, 2025
    Dog Training Elite has been amazing. Everyone is so friendly and really listens to meet our dogs’ needs. Josh and Kevin are top notch. We had concerns with aggression and they really made us feel at ease and were so patient with all of our questions and concerns. They continue to check in after completing training.
  • Jennie Eckenrode
    Mar. 15, 2025
    I can’t say enough good things about the Dog Training Elite program! The trainers were patient, knowledgeable, and clearly passionate about what they do. They didn’t just train my dog—they taught me how to communicate better with him, which made all the difference. Before training, Rolo really struggled with reactivity around other dogs. Taking him in public was unpredictable, stressful, and honestly kind of embarrassing. I couldn’t take him anywhere that had dogs that he didn’t know. He would bark, growl, lunge, and completely lose focus any time we saw another dog. I felt overwhelmed and didn’t know how to help him. That all changed when we started this training program. The trainers immediately understood Rolo’s behavior and worked with so much patience and care. They gave us practical tools and techniques that made sense, and more importantly, they worked. Throughout the training, Rolo became more calm, focused, and confident—and so did I. Now we can pass other dogs on walks without chaos, and I finally feel like I can enjoy time outside with him. It’s been an incredible transformation. I’m so proud of Rolo, and so thankful for the team that helped us get here. If your dog struggles with reactivity, don’t give up—this training truly makes a difference!
  • Daniel Rocco
    Mar. 7, 2025
    Our experience with Dog Training Elite Greater Cleveland's service was heightened by the exceptional empathy, patience, and kindness exhibited by the trainer, whose firm guidance and encouraging words propelled our dog's progress in their Basic obedience lessons. With the guidance of a seasoned Dog behavior expert, our pup made remarkable strides, and we couldn't be more grateful for the support and understanding we received throughout the In home dog training process. Our dog Stella is very anxious around strangers and we were worried how she would get along. After a few days Stella was excited to attend the training. The staff was amazing and have a great balance of compassion and firmness. We are looking forward to group classes to better relieve Stalla's anxiety, and the in home visits really help in coaching my wife and I to keep the training going. Couldn't be happier with the results. Danny
  • Jennifer Morelli
    Mar. 2, 2025
    The staff and trainers were great to work with. Very knowledgeable! Highly recommend!
  • Danielle Zaremba
    Feb. 12, 2025
    Dog Training Elite is truly a business with trainers who have a heart and do everything possible to help a dog. I highly recommend Josh and his team for all training needs. CLE Dog Rescue Crew
  • Kevin Mcquade
    Feb. 12, 2025
    The Dog Training Elite Greater Cleveland team demonstrated exceptional patience, knowledge, and experience during my dog's Basic obedience lessons, and their dedication and enthusiasm were the perfect ingredients for achieving rapid progress and lasting results. As a bonus, having a certified Dog behavior expert guided us through the In home dog training process made us feel confident that our furry friend was in capable and knowledgeable hands during the Service Dog Training journey.
  • La Law
    Feb. 12, 2025
    The Dog Training Elite Greater Cleveland team demonstrated exceptional empathy, patience, experience, knowledge, and affection as they helped us work through basic obedience lessons and overcome challenges with our puppy Training needs. Fritz had become the best Pupoy and I cannot say enough good things about everyone - they truly are the best!!
  • Cheryl Willis
    Feb. 12, 2025
    Josh and Lexi were amazing. I have a 1 year old golden retriever I thought untrainable just because he was so rambunctious. Not only were they able to work with me and Dune on training, Dune is now at the end training to become a therapy dog! I can’t not express how much they have worked with him as well as myself. I know have a well mannered dog. It is amazing. Thank you for all you guys do! We can’t what to go on our therapy journey. Cheryl
  • David Rodriguez
    Feb. 10, 2025
    Josh and his team were the greatest of help training my pup. The care and expertise they showed was amazing. I would highly recommend them to anyone looking for an incredibly competent training company.
  • david rodriguez
    Feb. 10, 2025
    The patience and encouragement provided by Dog Training Elite Greater Cleveland's Dog Trainer was impressive during the Basic obedience lessons, expertly guiding our pup towards significant improvements.
  • George Janca
    Mar. 7, 2025
    Having had two previous pups I thought this girl would be easily trained by me. That was not so. Thanks loads to Kevin for helping me understand the training methods used and to all the great people at Elite. I was very sensitive to make certain that the training would be pain and punishment free. The patience and care shown to train my Beagle mix 2 year old and to train me was and is outstanding. From a wild pulling strong willed pup to my compliant walking companion is miraculous. And accomplished simply with the gentle ‘tapping’ reminders, lots of love and encouragement and treat rewards. Thanks again all!
  • Robin Strong
    Apr. 24, 2025
    My three year old Aussie went through their in person Platinum Elite Training Camp, she is dealing with a lot of reactivity and aggression and the whole team has made such an impact on her. Kevin, Andrea and Dennis were all so helpful with my dog Nova’s training, and mine! Nova is very selective with the people she likes and she gets excited whenever she sees any of the team from Dog Training Elite. I know we will have support when needed in the future and really look forward to ongoing group classes to help keep Nova properly socialized, obedient and happy.
  • jen
    Apr. 20, 2025
    We can’t say enough about this training facility. Catie and Louie loved attending class daily- and we were so impressed by both the facility itself and the training staff. We would highly recommend. Money well spent! - Barbara and Ron Sherman
  • Barbara
    Apr. 19, 2025
    A huge Thank You to Kevin, Andrea and Dennis of Dog Training Elite Northeast Ohio for what they were able to accomplish in training my 5 month old pup Trace. In a very short amount of time all of my serious concerns were addressed. Their expertise was evident but more importantly to me was the kindness and care showed to both Trace and myself. I am so happy to have found them!
  • Kelly Smith
    Apr. 19, 2025
    The trainers at Dog Training Elite Greater Cleveland demonstrated exceptional patience, encouragement, consistency, kindness, and humor throughout all of our in home training sessions. Our five year old doodle went from being reactive to most everything on walks and the TV to being an eager to learn and non-reactive pup. We enjoy our walks now and look forward to continuing our training with group classes.
  • Andrea Shkilevich
    Apr. 18, 2025
    I cannot say enough great things about Dog Training Elite Greater Cleveland (North Olmsted location)! The techniques work beautifully and we noticed a huge (positive) difference in our pups behavior after the first day of in-facility training. She has kept her spunky and unique personality but knows boundaries now. They gave us a way to communicate with her, which has brought us all closer... it's priceless! The whole operation is well organized and professional, and the team is kind, patient, accommodating and dedicated. They truly love what they do... and the proof is in the results. Our pup is happy, well behaved and thriving. My husband and I could not be happier with our experience!
  • Janice Smith
    Apr. 2, 2025
    Josh has done an outstanding job with my Samson I have learned to be firm but loving toward Samson I would definitely remocomed Dog Training Elite to all my friends.
  • Guido Carbone
    Mar. 25, 2025
    Guido and I are So happy we chose Dog Training Elite. It's Amazing how 2 weeks of Dog Training with our 4 or 5 month old boxer mix. Andrea, Kevin, Dennis, Agent K....everyone there love their profession and are Great at it! 🩷🩵🩷🩵 And their support doesn't end there. Do you And your Pup and learn these methods! Jody
  • Kent Heckel
    Mar. 29, 2025
    Just finished the extra outdoor session that is free once your dog finish the course. It was absolutely excellent. Not only to keep up with the training we learned, but to have my dog around other dogs who have been through the program to reinforce that learning was awesome. I am so impressed with this business & I really recommend this place for you and your family 🐶
  • Sarah Courtad
    Mar. 28, 2025
    We were referred to Dog Training Elite Greater Cleveland because of their expertise with rescue dogs and their support after formal training. We rescued our 3 year-old Golden Retriever from a puppy mill breeder and struggled with basic obedience training. Her lack of socialization was causing behavioral issues, and we needed help ASAP. We decided to enroll her in their 2-week camp, and we are thrilled with her progress! Before training, we were anxious about taking her outside, but just three weeks after camp, we're visiting parks and even letting her off-leash. Her leash reactivity has significantly improved, and we continue attending weekly group classes to further progress. We're incredibly grateful for the team's support and ongoing help!
  • Cyndi Tomassetti
    Mar. 26, 2025
    Dog Training Elite has been amazing. Everyone is so friendly and really listens to meet our dogs’ needs. Josh and Kevin are top notch. We had concerns with aggression and they really made us feel at ease and were so patient with all of our questions and concerns. They continue to check in after completing training.
  • Jennie Eckenrode
    Mar. 15, 2025
    I can’t say enough good things about the Dog Training Elite program! The trainers were patient, knowledgeable, and clearly passionate about what they do. They didn’t just train my dog—they taught me how to communicate better with him, which made all the difference. Before training, Rolo really struggled with reactivity around other dogs. Taking him in public was unpredictable, stressful, and honestly kind of embarrassing. I couldn’t take him anywhere that had dogs that he didn’t know. He would bark, growl, lunge, and completely lose focus any time we saw another dog. I felt overwhelmed and didn’t know how to help him. That all changed when we started this training program. The trainers immediately understood Rolo’s behavior and worked with so much patience and care. They gave us practical tools and techniques that made sense, and more importantly, they worked. Throughout the training, Rolo became more calm, focused, and confident—and so did I. Now we can pass other dogs on walks without chaos, and I finally feel like I can enjoy time outside with him. It’s been an incredible transformation. I’m so proud of Rolo, and so thankful for the team that helped us get here. If your dog struggles with reactivity, don’t give up—this training truly makes a difference!
  • Daniel Rocco
    Mar. 7, 2025
    Our experience with Dog Training Elite Greater Cleveland's service was heightened by the exceptional empathy, patience, and kindness exhibited by the trainer, whose firm guidance and encouraging words propelled our dog's progress in their Basic obedience lessons. With the guidance of a seasoned Dog behavior expert, our pup made remarkable strides, and we couldn't be more grateful for the support and understanding we received throughout the In home dog training process. Our dog Stella is very anxious around strangers and we were worried how she would get along. After a few days Stella was excited to attend the training. The staff was amazing and have a great balance of compassion and firmness. We are looking forward to group classes to better relieve Stalla's anxiety, and the in home visits really help in coaching my wife and I to keep the training going. Couldn't be happier with the results. Danny
  • Jennifer Morelli
    Mar. 2, 2025
    The staff and trainers were great to work with. Very knowledgeable! Highly recommend!
  • Danielle Zaremba
    Feb. 12, 2025
    Dog Training Elite is truly a business with trainers who have a heart and do everything possible to help a dog. I highly recommend Josh and his team for all training needs. CLE Dog Rescue Crew
  • Kevin Mcquade
    Feb. 12, 2025
    The Dog Training Elite Greater Cleveland team demonstrated exceptional patience, knowledge, and experience during my dog's Basic obedience lessons, and their dedication and enthusiasm were the perfect ingredients for achieving rapid progress and lasting results. As a bonus, having a certified Dog behavior expert guided us through the In home dog training process made us feel confident that our furry friend was in capable and knowledgeable hands during the Service Dog Training journey.
  • La Law
    Feb. 12, 2025
    The Dog Training Elite Greater Cleveland team demonstrated exceptional empathy, patience, experience, knowledge, and affection as they helped us work through basic obedience lessons and overcome challenges with our puppy Training needs. Fritz had become the best Pupoy and I cannot say enough good things about everyone - they truly are the best!!
  • Cheryl Willis
    Feb. 12, 2025
    Josh and Lexi were amazing. I have a 1 year old golden retriever I thought untrainable just because he was so rambunctious. Not only were they able to work with me and Dune on training, Dune is now at the end training to become a therapy dog! I can’t not express how much they have worked with him as well as myself. I know have a well mannered dog. It is amazing. Thank you for all you guys do! We can’t what to go on our therapy journey. Cheryl
  • David Rodriguez
    Feb. 10, 2025
    Josh and his team were the greatest of help training my pup. The care and expertise they showed was amazing. I would highly recommend them to anyone looking for an incredibly competent training company.
  • david rodriguez
    Feb. 10, 2025
    The patience and encouragement provided by Dog Training Elite Greater Cleveland's Dog Trainer was impressive during the Basic obedience lessons, expertly guiding our pup towards significant improvements.
A Cleveland puppy trainers giving a puppy positive affirmation during an in-home training session.

Dog Training Elite in Cleveland Metro, OH

In-Home Puppy Training

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Dog Training Elite in Cleveland Metro offers comprehensive in-home training. For the first 4-6 weeks, trainers use “treat training” before moving onto more advanced puppy training. Puppies will learn the following behaviors:

  • Come, down, loose-leash walking, and down
  • Puppy corrections (Stop biting, digging, jumping, etc.)
  • Crate training/ housebreaking
  • Focus around distractions

Trainers will also help owners learn about the following:

  • Socialization tips
  • Environmental hazards
  • Positive reinforcement techniques
  • Puppy enrichment
  • Caring for your puppy
  • And more!

Training a puppy can feel overwhelming. By pairing you with a professional trainer, not only will your puppy learn quickly, but you will feel confident and empowered to continue training your puppy after the sessions are completed. Training in your own home will help you bond with your pup so even after the professional trainer leaves, you and Fido can continue to progress together.

A puppy ready to start training with Dog Training Elite in Cleveland Metro.

Start Puppy Training Early

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First-time dog owners are often unsure of when to begin training their dogs. For the best results, it’s essential to start training your puppy as soon as possible. You can start socialization and basic commands as soon as you bring your new puppy home. Puppies are open to new experiences and people and learn quickly while they are young. It is beneficial to take advantage of this stage. Start with basic commands like "down," "come," and "stay." If you are searching for classes, Dog Training Elite offers puppy obedience classes.

Additional Puppy Training Info

Dog Training Elite in Cleveland Metro - Puppy Crate Training in Cleveland, OH. DTE
Crate Training
A well-manered puppy receiving positive reinforcement from their owner.

Cleveland Puppy Trainers

The DTE Approach

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We have developed a highly successful and unique positive puppy training program empowering dog owners to train. Hence, their dog knows who to obey at all times, in all situations or environments. We offer personalized training to deal with specific issues and behaviors. We even offers customized training schedules to offer you the support you need as a dog owner.

Involvement is Key!

Most dog training programs don’t allow for the involvement of owners and families. Our trainers greatly encourage owners and their families to be involved in the training process. Why? This ensures you and your family know what’s expected, allows for continued education and means all the progress isn’t lost. Your puppy won’t come home and forget everything he’s learned.

Our puppy training program consists of two phases, early training and advanced training. Puppies as young as eight weeks can begin learning with Dog Training Elite in Cleveland Metro. Our process allows us to efficiently complete in-home puppy training services at your home or within the environment where behaviors manifest - such as in the park or around other dogs in the neighborhood.

A Dog Training Elite in Cleveland Metro puppy training outside.

Dog Training Elite in Cleveland Metro

How Puppy Training Works

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We use a positive puppy training method paired with an electronic collar - not a shock collar. Unlike shock collars, electronic collars do not hurt or harm the pup. They are used only to obtain their attention, not to punish bad behavior. We believe in using constant praise to encourage good behavior. The difference becomes apparent when comparing a puppy trained out of fear to a puppy who truly desires to please.

Positive Reinforcement for Positive Pups

Positive reinforcement is the best option in puppy training. Punishments will only scare your dog, and fear can lead to aggression problems later in life. Our trainers use a classical conditioning program focusing on positive reinforcement of basic commands.

Dogs are eager to please. When they learn following basic commands results in affection or a treat, they will be happy to do as you ask. With patience - and the assistance of a professional puppy trainer - you'll be rewarded with a lifelong loyal pal.

We base our training around the "Classical Conditioning" model, also known as the "Pavlovian" response or "respondent conditioning." This means developing conditioned or automatic reflexes to commands, so when the owner says "sit," the dog automatically sits without thinking. Our unique technique ensures our program is a success no matter what behavior we encounter.

Contact us today to learn more about our training programs !

A group of dogs being trained by the expert team at Dog Training Elite in Cleveland Metro.
Dog Training Elite in Cleveland Metro light star icon.

Educate, Empower, Elevate, Elite

Victory Begins With Elite Education

Dog Training Elite in Cleveland Metro

Tips on How to Bond

Training is a great way to establish a deep, loyal bond with your puppy. Outside of your training sessions, there is more you can do to strengthen your bond. Here are some more tips for how to bond with your puppy:

Your puppy may not understand the words you’re saying, but he or she will understand your tone of voice. Speaking in an excited tone of voice will get your pup excited and motivate them to do what you want them to. Speaking in a low, calm voice can help soothe and relax your puppy.
Puppies thrive on routine. A consistent schedule will help your puppy adjust to their new home, and to you and your family. A puppy’s schedule needs to include eating, playtime, puppy training, potty breaks, and nap times.
As mentioned above, playtime is an important part of your puppy’s schedule. Playing with your puppy will help strengthen your bond and stimulate their brains. Walks are an easy and great way to give your puppy much-needed exercise. Start small, walking around in your yard or driveway and gradually extending the distance around your neighborhood.
Creating boundaries in your home for your puppy helps strengthen your bond because your puppy will look to you for direction and guidance. It will also help your puppy avoid bad habits. Baby gates and playpens are a useful way to create physical boundaries.
Puppies can become overwhelmed about all the new things they’re exploring. Crate training is a perfect way to allow your puppy to have their own space where they feel safe and comfortable and help them develop some independence so they grow into a well-adjusted dog.
The most adorable way to bond with your puppy is by cuddling them! Snuggling with your pup can help him or her feel comforted and safe. The best time to get a cuddle session with your puppy is when they are sleepy. Cuddling also helps puppies get used to having their paws, belly, face, etc. handled, and can be a good time to introduce light grooming practices like brushing their fur.