Establish a space that is the puppy’s own. This will naturally include the puppy’s bed but also space for water bowl, food bowl, toys, etc. In the early days, do not allow the animal to visit all areas of the house but give limited (on lead) access to the garden.

A dog needs to know where it sits in the hierarchy of the pack (in this case, your family). It must understand therefore, that it is subservient to even the youngest child. Each family member must decide on and stick to their role in supporting the puppy, which must understand that its needs do not come first.

Just like a new baby, new dogs need and will benefit from the security of an established daily routine. This routine must include meals, garden access, walks, sleep, play, visitors, etc.

Do not punish or scold your puppy for urinating or defecating inside. If you do this, you can make it scared of toileting in front of you. When accidents happen, take the puppy on a lead straight to the area where it is allowed to toilet (such as a specific area in the garden you’ve identified). When your puppy has used the correct place, say in a clear but praiseful voice “toilet”, this will help the animal understand where it can and cannot ‘go’. Do not say “good boy/ girl”, if you do, don’t be surprised if an accident occurs the next time you say this! Expect the puppy to want to toilet often and look out for preparation signs (such as sniffing the floor and circling) then take the dog straight to the specific area, as above.

A puppy will naturally test all the textures in its environment by chewing, so it will need a variety of objects with different textures that it owns and is allowed to chew. When it does go to chew something you don’t want it to, remove the object giving a clear ‘no’ command and replace it straight way with an allowed object.

Remember, you’re not a canine obedience expert you are just a loving owner who wants to do the best they can. Therefore, it’s fine to seek professional help. You will both benefit from attending professional puppy training classes and these are particularly helpful as the dog is trained in the presence of other dogs.