We love our puppies and want them to feel at home, but giving a young puppy full run of the house is a recipe for disaster.
Think of it this way: would you leave a two-year-old toddler downstairs to play alone while you went upstairs to take a shower? Of course not! You know they’d likely get hurt or find something they shouldn’t have. Puppies are exactly the same. Their minds move at 100 miles per hour, and if you don’t give them a job, they will find one—usually involving your favorite rug or the leg of your dining table.
The “Three Places” Rule
Until your puppy is at least six months old, they should ideally be in one of three places to ensure safety and proper training:
- On a leash tied to you: This allows you to supervise them and catch unwanted behaviors instantly.
- In a crate: This is their safe space for resting when you cannot provide 100% of your attention.
- Outside: For exercise, potty breaks, and exploration in a secure area.
Using the Leash to Build a “Perfect Recall”
One of the biggest mistakes owners make is “poisoning” the Come command. If you call your puppy and they ignore you, they’ve just learned that “Come” is optional.
- The 100% Rule: Never call your puppy to you unless you are 100% sure they will actually come.
- The Training Pop: When they are on a leash, say “Come,” give a small, gentle “pop” on the lead, and then shower them with praise when they reach you.
- The Long Line: Keep a 30-foot light rope by the door. Use it when you’re in the yard or getting the mail. It gives them the feeling of freedom, but gives you the control to reinforce the command if they get distracted.
Setting Boundaries Early for Freedom Later
Keeping your puppy on a leash in the house isn’t just about safety; it’s about setting the rules of the house.
Real-Life Example: While sitting on the couch, my German Shepherd, Talon, started to chew the furniture at 14 weeks old. Because he was right there with me, I corrected him immediately. He learned the rules from day one. By 6 or 7 months old, he earned the right to be out of his crate because he knew the boundaries.
Every dog matures at a different rate. A mouthy breed like a Lab might need supervision for a year or more, while others learn faster. Don’t rush it—wait until you are certain your home is safe before granting full freedom.
What to Do if They Won’t Come
If your puppy is off-leash in the yard and isn’t listening, don’t keep calling them. You’ll only teach them to ignore your voice. Instead, try “the invisible owner” trick:
- Ignore the puppy.
- Start doing a task like pulling weeds or picking up the yard.
- Their curiosity will eventually get the better of them, and they’ll come to see what you’re doing.
- Once they reach you, take them by the collar, praise them warmly, and head inside.