10 Puppy School Tips | Jordan Dog Training

Last updated: 9 October 2026.

Puppy school should give you more than a puppy who can sit for a treat. It is an opportunity to understand your puppy, build good habits and get practical help while you are both learning. These are ten things we encourage families to consider when choosing a class and getting the most from it.

1. Puppy school teaches people as well as puppies

Much of your puppy’s learning happens at home between classes. A good instructor explains what to practise, shows you how and helps you adjust when something is not working. Even experienced dog owners can benefit, because each puppy brings their own personality and needs.

2. Book early and check the course requirements

Our Brisbane Puppy School is a four-week course for puppies aged 8 to 18 weeks, with the aim of finishing by 18 weeks. Puppies can start after their first vaccination at 8 weeks. Bring their vaccination certificate and speak with your vet about your puppy’s health and local disease risks. If your puppy is older, contact us to discuss suitable training.

3. Socialisation is about confidence, not meeting every dog

Socialisation includes everyday sounds, surfaces, people, handling and different environments. Give your puppy room to observe and move away. A quiet, positive experience is more useful than a busy greeting they cannot cope with. Having an older dog at home does not cover every experience your puppy will need.

4. Puppy biting needs a practical plan

Mouthing is common, but you do not need to accept painful biting. Keep suitable toys nearby, avoid wrestling with hands and create space calmly if your puppy keeps grabbing you. Look at the whole routine, including rest and excitement. Our puppy biting guide explains how to respond consistently at home. Do not rely on another puppy to teach this for you.

5. Good habits start with manageable routines

Toilet training, settling and chewing all become easier when the household follows the same plan. Offer frequent toilet opportunities, supervise indoor freedom and put tempting belongings out of reach. Reward the behaviours you would like repeated. Read Part 3 of our puppy home series for toilet training, chewing and rest.

6. Choose a class that suits your puppy

Ask who teaches the class, what the course covers and how worried or excitable puppies are supported. Look for clear explanations, reward-based teaching and thoughtful management of interactions. A veterinary clinic provides a controlled setting, but no setting removes every infection risk. Follow the class health requirements and your vet’s advice.

7. Play should be supervised and optional

Some puppies enjoy suitable play; others need more space and time. Watch whether both puppies are choosing to participate and can take a break. Hiding, freezing or repeatedly trying to escape calls for a change. Your instructor should help you recognise when to pause rather than expect your puppy to work it out alone.

8. Short practice at home makes a difference

Practise one skill at a time in an easy setting. A few successful repetitions woven into the day are easier to maintain than a long session when your puppy is distracted or tired. Keep rewards handy and help everyone in the household use the same cues and expectations.

9. Puppy school is a beginning, not a guarantee

Early training can help establish useful habits, but it cannot guarantee that a dog will never develop behaviour difficulties. Keep building skills as your puppy grows. Our group obedience training provides a next step. Persistent fear, distress or behaviour that feels unsafe deserves individual support, with a veterinary assessment where appropriate.

10. Ask questions and enjoy learning together

You do not need to arrive with a perfectly behaved puppy. Bring your questions and tell the trainer what is happening at home. The aim is to leave with a clearer understanding of your puppy and a plan you can use, while enjoying the relationship you are building.

Getting ready for your puppy

Our three-part guide follows the journey from preparing your home to managing daily life:

For help tailored to your home, our Puppy Set Up service can help you prepare routines and practical arrangements. Contact Jordan Dog Training to discuss your puppy’s needs.