Large-Breed Puppy Training Guide: Simple Tips That Work Wonders

Raising a large-breed puppy is an adventure full of energy, cuddles, and curiosity. Because these pups grow quickly and become strong adults, starting training early is essential for their safety and your sanity.

Teaching basic commands like sit, stay, and come helps establish clear boundaries, fosters confidence, and build a trusting relationship between you and your pup. Consistent praise and rewards make learning fun and reinforce good behavior, setting the stage for a well-behaved adult dog.

Start with short, focused training sessions—5 to 10 minutes at a time—since puppies have limited attention spans. Always use positive reinforcement: reward desired behavior immediately with a tasty treat, gentle praise, or a favorite toy. For example, when teaching “sit,” hold a treat just above your puppy’s nose and move it backward over their head. As they naturally lower their rear, say “sit,” then reward immediately. Repetition and consistency are key; practice several times a day in different environments so your puppy learns to obey regardless of distractions.

For stay, begin with a few seconds and gradually increase the duration. Pair it with eye contact and calm, steady energy. This teaches your puppy patience and focus—crucial skills for large breeds who grow strong and energetic quickly.

The come command is essential for safety. Practice indoors first, using a happy, encouraging tone. When your puppy comes to you, reward generously. Gradually increase distance and practice outdoors, always ensuring your puppy responds reliably before letting them off-leash.

Practical tips:

• Keep training sessions short and fun—puppies respond better to play-based learning.
• End each session on a positive note to keep your puppy eager for the next lesson.
• Avoid punishment; large-breed puppies are sensitive and respond best to encouragement.

Ultimate Training Essentials for Happy Puppies

Heading out to train your puppy? We’ve rounded up all the top essentials and included Amazon links for your convenience, so you can get started with ease:

One of the most important parts of training is rewarding good behavior, and that’s where Milk-Bone MaroSnacks come in. These snacks are bite-sized, healthy, and perfect for reinforcing commands without crumbs. Puppies love them, and they make training sessions consistent and enjoyable.

To make treat access simple, the RoyalCare Silicone Dog Treat Pouch keeps rewards secure and within easy reach. With its magnetic closure and sturdy waist clip, you’ll always have treats handy for quick reinforcement.

And of course, cleanups are part of puppy life. Earth Rated Poop Bags are leak-proof, extra thick, and lavender-scented, keeping every walk hassle-free.

Leash Training, Clickers & Safe Outdoor Adventures

LEASH TRAINING

Leash training is one of the most important skills for your large-breed puppy. These gentle giants grow quickly into strong, powerful adults, so teaching proper leash manners early will make walks safe, enjoyable, and stress-free for both you and your pup. Without training, even a young puppy can pull hard, putting strain on their developing joints—and on your arms and shoulders!

Begin with short, consistent walks around your home or yard, gradually building confidence before venturing into busier areas.

Start with a comfortable, well-fitted harness. New puppy parents love the PetSafe Deluxe Easy Walk Harness it’s top-rated for reducing pulling while teaching your puppy to walk calmly by your side.

For outdoor exploration with control, the Hi Kiss Puppy Training Lead lets your puppy discover the world safely while giving you peace of mind. Its durable, adjustable design also ensures comfort for your puppy.

Positive reinforcement is key. Reward your puppy with treats or praise whenever they walk nicely without pulling. This helps them associate good leash behavior with fun rewards, making training faster and more enjoyable. Avoid retractable leashes at this stage, as sudden tugs can strain growing joints.

Leash walks are also the perfect time to teach additional skills—stopping at curbs, waiting patiently before crossing streets, and greeting other dogs politely. Gradually add distractions and increase walk duration to help your puppy stay calm and focused, setting the stage for years of safe, stress-free adventures.

CLICKERS

Clickers can make training even more effective. Clicker training is a simple way to teach your dog new behaviors while keeping training fun and positive. The click sound clearly tells your pup exactly when they’ve done something right, helping them learn faster and reducing confusion. By focusing on rewarding good behavior rather than punishing mistakes, clickers encourage confidence and happiness. Plus, they’re small, portable, and perfect for training at home or on the go, making every session easier, more enjoyable, and more effective.

The OYEFLY Lightweigt Pet Training Clicker allows you to mark good behaviors with precision, speeding up learning and keeping training sessions fun.

For advanced or long-distance training, consider the Ecollar Dog Training Clicker Kit. These proven tools provide clear communication across environments—from the backyard to parks or K-9 practice—helping reinforce commands consistently and safely.

Socialization is just as important as obedience. Introduce your puppy to new people, dogs, and environments to build confidence and reduce anxiety. Remember, large-breed puppies often mature mentally more slowly than physically, so patience, repetition, and plenty of positive reinforcement are the keys to raising a happy, well-behaved dog!

Alongside socialization and training, proper nutrition is essential to support healthy growth, strong bones, and overall development. Choosing high-quality, age-appropriate puppy food ensures your pup has the energy and nutrients needed to explore, learn, and thrive during these critical early months. See our PUPPY NUTRITION GUIDE for healthy growth here.

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