--- title: "5 First Tricks for Your New Puppy" id: "202776" type: "post" slug: "5-first-tricks-for-your-new-puppy" published_at: "2020-03-05T06:46:38+00:00" modified_at: "2023-07-14T13:29:36+00:00" url: "https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/2020/03/05/5-first-tricks-for-your-new-puppy/" markdown_url: "https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/2020/03/05/5-first-tricks-for-your-new-puppy.md" excerpt: "Coming home with a new puppy is one of the most exciting events that could happen in an animal lover’s life. Their excitement and cuteness are infectious with their little paws and a head too big for their body. Between..." taxonomy_category: - "Tips & Tricks" --- [Home](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/) / [Blog](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/blog/) / [Tips & Tricks](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/category/blog/) / **5 First Tricks for Your New Puppy** [Tips & Tricks](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/category/blog/) # 5 First Tricks for Your New Puppy March 5, 2020 · 4 min read · [Carley Kuehner](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/author/cosmick/) [Stay connected via Google News Follow us for the latest pet updates and guides.](https://www.google.com/preferences/source?q=petlandsanantonio.com) Coming home with a new puppy is one of the most exciting events that could happen in an animal lover’s life. Their excitement and cuteness are infectious with their little paws and a head too big for their body. Between belly rubs and playing with toys, new pet owners will run into a few behavioral issues that might frustrate them if they’re not addressed soon enough. This is where training comes in; it is extremely important to teach manners and begin to establish trust between human and dog. Like people, all dogs learn differently. Some are more food motivated, others love getting pets, or their favorite toy as a reward. Finding this motivator is key when training because it will create a positive and exciting experience for the puppy. ### These are five tricks to teach your new puppy in the first month of adoption… 1. **Their Name** This is the most important thing for your puppy to learn because it will help you get their attention in several different scenarios, whether it’s trying to find them after they got off leash or having them do a trick for you. **How-To** Enjoying this read? You'll love our puppies. Adorable, vet-checked pups looking for their forever homes — available now. [Meet our puppies](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/puppies-for-sale/) 1. Having their favorite thing in hand, say their chosen name as you give them their treat or toy. They will soon associate the name with something you’re going to give them that is very interesting. Repeat for only a couple minutes at a time because puppies do get tired. 2. When you come back home from work or class, greet them by saying their name over and over. Petting, toys, or treats enhance the positive association they have with their name and owner. 1. **Leave It** When you can get your dog’s attention with their name, puppies have a habit of getting themselves into trouble either way. “Leave It” is a simple command that redirects the puppy’s attention towards you instead of something like a frog or electrical cords that they would like to chew up. **How-To** 1. Let the puppy see you have a reward in your hand, preferably something small so when you make a fist it is completely covered. This works best with treats. 2. Before they can snatch it up, close your hand and say “leave it” 3. The puppy will try to gnaw and paw at your hand for the reward, but stay strong. 4. Once the puppy looks away or loses interest, reward them with the treat and repeat. 5. Once they get the hang of that, drop the treat on the ground, say “leave it,” and quickly cover it with your hand. 6. Repeat step 4 with this new variation. 1. **Come** The “come” command is pretty simple because it reiterates the same steps like teaching them their name, just at a distance. **How-To** Still reading? Our puppies are waiting. Healthy, happy pups ready to meet their families — see who's available today. [Meet our puppies](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/puppies-for-sale/) 1. When your pup is out of arm’s reach, get their attention with their favorite reward. 2. As they trot towards you, say “come” and reward them with the treat, toy, and/or lots of love. 3. When they are preoccupied with something else, call out their name and “come.” Reward them handsomely when they do run over to you, expecting something fun or tasty for them to have. 1. **Sit** Having a puppy sit might seem impossible because of all their wiggles, but rest assured, it is possible. With a little bit of incentives, your pup is sure to follow suit. **How-To** 1. Have your puppy’s attention with their reward while they are on leash. 2. With the reward in hand, hold it above their head and move it slowly towards them, parallel with their back. 3. Your puppy will want to back up, but having a hold on their leash keeps them from moving and ultimately tricking them into sitting down. 4. Just before their butt hits the ground, say “sit” and reward them. Repeat until you can do this without the leash. 1. **Down** This will be the hardest command out of the others, especially with stubborn puppies. Laying down means that the dog is giving up control, forcing them to be in a relaxed, vulnerable position with their new owner on command. It takes a lot of trust, but you should have a strong bond with your pup by doing the aforementioned tricks. **How-To** 1. Your puppy should be in a sitting position to make it easier for them to transition into laying down. 2. Hold a reward at their face, not allowing them to get it, and slowly lower your hand towards the ground. 3. If your puppy gets up out of sit, have them sit again and repeat the process. 4. Before their elbows hit the ground, say “down” and reward them when they do go into a down position. Repeat. [Stay connected via Google News Follow us for the latest pet updates and guides.](https://www.google.com/preferences/source?q=petlandsanantonio.com) Available Now## If you loved this, you'll *love our puppies* Meet the happy, healthy pups ready to join your family today — browse the whole litter below. [Browse all puppies](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/puppies-for-sale/) - Petland Shavano Park ## [Female #11185](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/puppies-for-sale/cocker-spaniel/cocker-spaniel-11185/) ### [Cocker Spaniel](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/puppies-for-sale/cocker-spaniel/) [Get My Info](#petInquiry) [(210) 592-1234](tel:(210)%20592-1234) - Petland Shavano Park ## [Male #11184](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/puppies-for-sale/cocker-spaniel/cocker-spaniel-11184/) ### [Cocker Spaniel](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/puppies-for-sale/cocker-spaniel/) [Get My Info](#petInquiry) [(210) 592-1234](tel:(210)%20592-1234) - Petland Shavano Park ## [Female #11183](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/puppies-for-sale/aussiepoo/aussiepoo-11183/) ### [Aussiepoo](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/puppies-for-sale/aussiepoo/) [Get My Info](#petInquiry) [(210) 592-1234](tel:(210)%20592-1234) - Petland Shavano Park ## [Female #11182](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/puppies-for-sale/aussiepoo/aussiepoo-11182/) ### [Aussiepoo](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/puppies-for-sale/aussiepoo/) [Get My Info](#petInquiry) [(210) 592-1234](tel:(210)%20592-1234) - Petland Shavano Park ## [Male #11181](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/puppies-for-sale/miniature-poodle/miniature-poodle-11181/) ### [Miniature Poodle](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/puppies-for-sale/miniature-poodle/) [Get My Info](#petInquiry) [(210) 592-1234](tel:(210)%20592-1234) - Petland Shavano Park ## [Male #11180](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/puppies-for-sale/miniature-poodle/miniature-poodle-11180/) ### [Miniature Poodle](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/puppies-for-sale/miniature-poodle/) [Get My Info](#petInquiry) [(210) 592-1234](tel:(210)%20592-1234) - Petland Shavano Park ## [Male #11179](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/puppies-for-sale/cavapoo/cavapoo-11179/) ### [Cavapoo](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/puppies-for-sale/cavapoo/) [Get My Info](#petInquiry) [(210) 592-1234](tel:(210)%20592-1234) - Petland Shavano Park ## [Male #11177](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/puppies-for-sale/french-bulldog/french-bulldog-11177/) ### [French Bulldog](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/puppies-for-sale/french-bulldog/) [Get My Info](#petInquiry) [(210) 592-1234](tel:(210)%20592-1234) - Petland Shavano Park ## [Male #11178](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/puppies-for-sale/french-bulldog/french-bulldog-11178/) ### [French Bulldog](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/puppies-for-sale/french-bulldog/) [Get My Info](#petInquiry) [(210) 592-1234](tel:(210)%20592-1234) - Petland Shavano Park ## [Male #11176](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/puppies-for-sale/miniature-poodle/miniature-poodle-11176/) ### [Miniature Poodle](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/puppies-for-sale/miniature-poodle/) [Get My Info](#petInquiry) [(210) 592-1234](tel:(210)%20592-1234) - Petland Shavano Park ## [Female #11175](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/puppies-for-sale/miniature-poodle/miniature-poodle-11175/) ### [Miniature Poodle](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/puppies-for-sale/miniature-poodle/) [Get My Info](#petInquiry) [(210) 592-1234](tel:(210)%20592-1234) - Petland Leon Valley ## [Female #8223](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/puppies-for-sale/papillon/papillon-8223/) ### [Papillon](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/puppies-for-sale/papillon/) [Get My Info](#petInquiry) [(210) 688-7387](tel:(210)%20688-7387) Loading more pets… You've reached the end. Still looking?### We can find you the perfect pet. Tell our pet counselors what you're looking for: breed, gender, color, anything. No extra cost, no obligation. [Start a Special Order](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/special-orders/) #### **Related** Articles [View All Articles](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/blog/) - [https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/2026/11/01/dachshund-puppy-care/](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/2026/11/01/dachshund-puppy-care/) [Blog](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/category/blog-2/) · [Tips & Tricks](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/category/blog/) ## [What Should You Know Before Bringing Home a Dachshund?](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/2026/11/01/dachshund-puppy-care/) In this articleQuick Answer / SummaryIntroductionWhat Makes Dachshunds Such Special Companions?How Much Exercise and Training Does a Dachshund Need?What Health Considerations Should… November 1, 2026 - [https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/2026/10/01/understanding-puppy-body-language/](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/2026/10/01/understanding-puppy-body-language/) [Blog](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/category/blog-2/) · [Tips & Tricks](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/category/blog/) ## [Understanding Puppy Body Language: What Your Pup Is Telling You](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/2026/10/01/understanding-puppy-body-language/) In this articleHow can you tell when your puppy is relaxed?What does a puppy’s playful body language look like?How can you recognize… October 1, 2026 - [https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/2026/09/01/first-commands-to-teach-a-puppy/](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/2026/09/01/first-commands-to-teach-a-puppy/) [Blog](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/category/blog-2/) · [Tips & Tricks](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/category/blog/) ## [The First 5 Commands Every Puppy Should Learn](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/2026/09/01/first-commands-to-teach-a-puppy/) Bringing home a puppy is one of life’s happiest moments. The toys are ready. The bed is set up. The photos have… September 1, 2026 - [https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/2026/08/01/dog-breed-comparison-guide/](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/2026/08/01/dog-breed-comparison-guide/) [Blog](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/category/blog-2/) · [Tips & Tricks](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/category/blog/) ## [Finding the Perfect Puppy: A Breed Comparison Guide](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/2026/08/01/dog-breed-comparison-guide/) In this articleStart with Your Lifestyle, Not Just LooksMeet Five Popular Breeds and Their Best MatchPetland Helps Beyond Puppy DayYour Perfect Match… August 1, 2026 - [https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/2026/06/01/dog-summer-jobs-breed-personalities/](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/2026/06/01/dog-summer-jobs-breed-personalities/) [Blog](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/category/blog-2/) · [Tips & Tricks](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/category/blog/) ## [Your Dog’s Summer Job Would Definitely Be…](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/2026/06/01/dog-summer-jobs-breed-personalities/) In this articleDifferent Breeds, Different Summer CareersWhy Understanding Personality MattersThe Best Summer Job of All? Being Your DogSummer is officially here. The… June 1, 2026 - [https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/2026/05/01/is-petland-a-good-choice-puppy-myths/](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/2026/05/01/is-petland-a-good-choice-puppy-myths/) [Blog](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/category/blog-2/) · [Pet Store](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/category/pet-store/) · [Petcare](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/category/petcare/) · [Tips & Tricks](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/category/blog/) · [Veterinary](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/category/veterinary/) ## [Myth Busting: Why Petland is a Good Choice When Bringing a Puppy Home](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/2026/05/01/is-petland-a-good-choice-puppy-myths/) In this articleWhy Where Your Puppy Comes From Truly MattersLet’s Talk About the Concerns You May Have HeardWhat Makes Petland a Trusted… May 1, 2026 - [https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/2026/04/01/know-the-importance-of-puppy-health-screening/](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/2026/04/01/know-the-importance-of-puppy-health-screening/) [Blog](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/category/blog-2/) · [Petcare](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/category/petcare/) · [Tips & Tricks](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/category/blog/) · [Veterinary](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/category/veterinary/) ## [AKC Registration With Health Testing: What Every Future Puppy Parent Should Know](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/2026/04/01/know-the-importance-of-puppy-health-screening/) In this articleWhat Is AKC Registration?What Is Health Testing?How AKC Registration and Health Testing Work TogetherHow Petland Supports Responsible BreedingHelping Families Find… April 1, 2026 - [https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/2026/03/01/understanding-dog-behavior-changes-in-spring/](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/2026/03/01/understanding-dog-behavior-changes-in-spring/) [Blog](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/category/blog-2/) · [Tips & Tricks](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/category/blog/) ## [Spring Fever, Fur Real: What Happens to Your Dog’s Personality When Winter Ends?](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/2026/03/01/understanding-dog-behavior-changes-in-spring/) dog behavior changes in spring March 1, 2026 - [https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/2026/01/01/petland-puppy-ethics/](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/2026/01/01/petland-puppy-ethics/) [Tips & Tricks](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/category/blog/) ## [The Ethical And Welfare Implications Of Buying From Petland Explained](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/2026/01/01/petland-puppy-ethics/) Bringing home a puppy is a big, emotional decision. And if you’ve ever paused and thought, “Am I making the right ethical… January 1, 2026 - [https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/2025/09/04/where-does-petland-get-their-puppies-the-truth-behind-the-tails/](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/2025/09/04/where-does-petland-get-their-puppies-the-truth-behind-the-tails/) [Tips & Tricks](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/category/blog/) ## [Where Does Petland Get Their Puppies: The Truth Behind The Tails](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/2025/09/04/where-does-petland-get-their-puppies-the-truth-behind-the-tails/) In this article1. trusted licensed-licensed breeders and distributors2. Hobby breeders3. Local adoption partnersWhat This Means for YouLocking eyes with a puppy is… September 4, 2025 - [https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/2020/05/07/steps-to-introducing-your-pet-to-a-newborn/](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/2020/05/07/steps-to-introducing-your-pet-to-a-newborn/) [Tips & Tricks](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/category/blog/) ## [Steps to Introducing Your Pet to a Newborn](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/2020/05/07/steps-to-introducing-your-pet-to-a-newborn/) Becoming a best friend and protector to your new bundle of joy is an exciting role that many canines are proud to… May 7, 2020 - [https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/2020/04/29/should-my-dog-be-eating-grass/](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/2020/04/29/should-my-dog-be-eating-grass/) [Tips & Tricks](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/category/blog/) ## [Should My Dog Be Eating Grass?](https://www.petlandsanantonio.com/2020/04/29/should-my-dog-be-eating-grass/) Are you finding yourself wondering if you bought a cow instead of a dog? If so, you’re not alone in this dilemma.… April 29, 2020 ``` Petland Leon Valley 758 Google reviews Write a review Posted on Google Karina R Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. My dad got my Malti-poo from this store 6yrs ago when I was a teen. We bought him at 3mo old! He was a happy puppy. My family requested to play with him in the little cubicles and we were delighted. He was a little pricey, but he had his papers, proper shots/vaccines, and had an underbite that made him adorable. He’s doing well even today! Never gotten injured or sick. He’s expected to live the normal expectancy of a malti-poo. I don’t remember much about the store or any changes since then, but I remember that the lady helping us was nice! Here is Marshmallow! Posted on Google Charles B Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Lots of dogs for adoption, well taken care of. Also have some birds, rabbits and a few sleepy ferrits. I stopped in for some feeder fish. Very nice staff. Posted on Google Joshua B Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Loved the exotic birds Posted on Google Melinda R Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. This was my 2nd time back. My daughter has been wanting another set of guinea pigs. I saw the most beautiful lionhead rabbit 🐇 about 7 weeks. LORENZO educated me on their demeanor, foods etc... I was there a good while, he showed no signs of rushing me, or pushing a sale. Answered all my questions and even educated me on ferrets as i asked lol he loves his job & wish all associates were like this everywhere! I was very pleased 😀 didn't grab the rabbit as my daughter took forever to answer me, but we're leaving for vacation and would not be cool to leave him alone . We will be back! And I will only ask for him! Thank you for the great customer service! ```