{"id":10149,"date":"2021-04-23T11:50:06","date_gmt":"2021-04-23T11:50:06","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/zigzag.dog\/blog\/uncategorized\/ultimate-puppy-training-guide\/"},"modified":"2026-04-20T13:43:38","modified_gmt":"2026-04-20T13:43:38","slug":"ultimate-puppy-training-guide","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/zigzag.dog\/en-us\/blog\/puppy-training\/training-basics\/ultimate-puppy-training-guide\/","title":{"rendered":"Week-by-Week Puppy Training Schedule (8\u201316 Weeks)"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>So\u2026 you\u2019ve got a new puppy, congrats! \ud83d\udc3e<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Tail wagging, eyes sparkling\u2026 and a <em>very<\/em> special interest in your favourite shoes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Maybe the carpet\u2019s already been christened. Maybe your neighbour Alfred has experienced an enthusiastic muddy greeting. It happens.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Here&#8217;s the good news; you\u2019re exactly where you need to be.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In fact, this <strong>puppy training schedule (8\u201316 weeks)<\/strong> will help you turn those chaotic early days into a routine that actually works \u2014 for both of you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Because with the right structure, those \u201cwhat have I done?\u201d moments quickly turn into \u201cI\u2019ve got this.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/app.adjust.com\/1lehyg83?fallback=https%3A%2F%2Fweb.zigzag.dog%2Fus%2F%3Futm_source%3Dwebsite%26utm_medium%3Din_article%26utm_campaign%3Din_article_CTA&amp;redirect_macos=https%3A%2F%2Fweb.zigzag.dog%2Fus%2F%3Futm_source%3Dwebsite%26utm_medium%3Din_article%26utm_campaign%3Din_article_CTA\">Why not try the ultimate puppy app too? <\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Quick Answer: What is the best puppy schedule?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>In short, at 8 weeks, your pup needs:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/zigzag.dog\/en-us\/blog\/puppy-training\/toilet-training\/how-to-toilet-train-a-puppy-full-guide\/\">Toilet breaks <\/a>every 1\u20132 hours<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>4 meals a day<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>16\u201320 hours of sleep <a href=\"https:\/\/zigzag.dog\/en-us\/blog\/puppy-behavior\/understanding-your-puppy\/how-long-do-puppies-sleep\/\">(yes, really)<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Short, fun training sessions<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Nothing fancy \u2014 just consistency.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">When should you start training your puppy?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Straight away. In fact, don\u2019t wait until they\u2019re older \u2014 trust us!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>That\u2019s because<\/strong> puppies are learning machines from day one. Everything they experience shapes how they see the world. <strong>As a result,<\/strong> the earlier you start, the easier life becomes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Instead,<\/strong> think of it less like \u201ctraining\u201d and more like\u2026 guiding a tiny, slightly chaotic roommate.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Why routines matter (for both of you)<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>To put it simply, just imagine waking up every day with no clue what\u2019s happening.still<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Bit stressful, right?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>That\u2019s exactly how it feels for your puppy without a routine.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>A consistent <strong>puppy routine at 8 weeks<\/strong> helps them:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Learn toilet training faster<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Feel safe and settled<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Understand what\u2019s coming next<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>More importantly, this means fewer surprises and fewer accidents for you. Fewer \u201cWHY are you doing that?\u201d moments.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What should a puppy schedule include?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>A good <strong>puppy daily schedule<\/strong> isn\u2019t complicated \u2014 it just needs the basics:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Toilet training<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Feeding<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Sleep (lots of it)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Play and enrichment<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Socialisation<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Simple training<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>At first, it might look like a lot on paper, but most of it happens naturally throughout the day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How should you train your pup?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Short answer: <strong>reward what you like, ignore what you don\u2019t.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The key thing is to use <strong>positive reinforcement training<\/strong>, which means:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Treats<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Toys<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Praise<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>If your pup does something good, reward it.<br>However, if they don\u2019t, reset and try again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Overall, it&#8217;s simple, effective, and works every time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>And no \u2014 you don\u2019t need to shout, dominate, or channel your inner TV dog trainer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What is \u201cmanagement\u201d (and why it matters)<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>So, here\u2019s a secret for you: good puppy training isn\u2019t just about teaching\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Instead, it\u2019s about preventing chaos in the first place.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Moreover, management means setting things up so your pup <em>can\u2019t<\/em> practise unwanted behaviour.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For example, this includes:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Shoes out of reach = no shoe thief<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Baby gate up = no zoomies in the wrong room<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Crate or pen = safe, calm space<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>It\u2019s not cheating. It\u2019s smart.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How often should you train?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Little and often wins.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>We\u2019re talking:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>1\u20135 minutes<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A few times a day<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Always ending on a win<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>For example, the best times are:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>After naps<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Before meals<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>During play<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>When they\u2019re already engaged<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Think quality over quantity \u2014 not boot camp.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Example Puppy Daily Schedule (8 Weeks)<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p>This isn\u2019t a strict timetable \u2014 think of it as a rhythm.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Morning<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Wake up \u2192 straight outside for a wee<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Breakfast<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Short play or training<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Toilet<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Nap<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Midday<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Toilet<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Play or training<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Meal<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Toilet<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Nap<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Afternoon<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Toilet<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Play<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Meal<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Toilet<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Nap<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Evening<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Play or gentle training<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Final meal<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Toilet<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Wind down<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Bed<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Night<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>One sleepy toilet trip (for now)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Golden rule:<\/strong> after eating, sleeping, or playing \u2192 toilet.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Puppy Training Plan (8\u201316 Weeks)<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p>To keep things simple \u2014 you don\u2019t need to teach everything at once.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Weeks 8\u201310<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Name<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Toilet training<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Crate training<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Gentle handling<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Exploring the home<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Weeks 10\u201312<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Recall (\u201ccome\u201d)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Sit<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Lead introduction<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Meeting people and new sounds<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Weeks 12\u201314<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Loose lead walking<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Down<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Settling on a mat<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Short outings<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Weeks 14\u201316<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Practising in new places<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Building independence<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Adding distractions<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Confidence outdoors<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>That&#8217;s because, slow and steady wins here.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Puppy Potty Training Schedule<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p>At 8 weeks:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Every 1\u20132 hours (yes, it\u2019s a lot)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>As they grow:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>12 weeks \u2192 ~3 hours<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>16 weeks \u2192 ~4 hours<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>That\u2019s why it\u2019s important to watch for signs like sniffing, circling, or suddenly disappearing\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Puppy Feeding Schedule<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p>Puppies need structure here too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>8\u201316 weeks \u2192 4 meals per day<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>4\u20136 months \u2192 3 meals<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>6+ months \u2192 2 meals<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>The key thing here is that feeding at the same times each day = easier toilet training and calmer routines.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How much sleep does a puppy need?<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p>A lot. Like\u2026 <em>a lot<\/em>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Most puppies sleep <strong>16\u201320 hours a day<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Without enough sleep, you\u2019ll likely see:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Zoomies<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Biting<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Chaos<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>General \u201ctiny gremlin\u201d behaviour<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Usually? They\u2019re just tired.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What happens after 16 weeks?<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p>This is where things start to get interesting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>At this point, your sweet little puppy may suddenly:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Forget everything<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Test boundaries<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Develop selective hearing<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/zigzag.dog\/en-us\/blog\/puppy-behavior\/puppy-adolescence-understanding-your-teenage-puppy\/\">Welcome to adolescence<\/a> \ud83d\ude05<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Stay consistent. Keep rewarding good behaviour. Stick to your routine.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You\u2019ve got this.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Key takeaway<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p>The key thing to remember is, you don\u2019t need the \u201cperfect\u201d schedule.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You just need:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Consistency<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Patience<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A sense of humour (very helpful)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Stick with it, and those chaotic early days turn into something pretty amazing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Want extra support?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>For a step-by-step plan tailored to your pup\u2019s breed, age, and personality,<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/app.adjust.com\/1lehyg83?fallback=https%3A%2F%2Fweb.zigzag.dog%2Fus%2F%3Futm_source%3Dwebsite%26utm_medium%3Din_article%26utm_campaign%3Din_article_CTA&amp;redirect_macos=https%3A%2F%2Fweb.zigzag.dog%2Fus%2F%3Futm_source%3Dwebsite%26utm_medium%3Din_article%26utm_campaign%3Din_article_CTA\">the Zigzag app<\/a> can guide you daily\u2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"schema-faq wp-block-yoast-faq-block\"><div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1776688987107\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">What should I teach my puppy first?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Start with toilet training. Then move on to name recognition, followed by crate training, sit, and recall.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1776689014239\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">How long should training sessions be?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">The key rule here is: &#8216;short and sweet sessions&#8217;:<br>-1\u20135 minutes<br>-Multiple times a day<br>-End on a win and they will <em>want<\/em> to train again.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1776689036939\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">What&#8217;s the best schedule for an 8-week old puppy?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">-Frequent toilet breaks<br>-4 meals<br>-Lots of sleep<br>-Short training sessions<br>-Gentle socialisation<br>Keep it simple and consistent.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1776689084108\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\">My puppy can&#8217;t go outside yet &#8211; what can I do?<\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\"><strong>The good news is you can still socialise safely at home. That includes things like:<\/strong><br>-New sounds<br>-Different surfaces<br>-Visitors<br>-Watching the outside world<br>-Car rides<br><strong>This means<\/strong> your puppy still gets important early socialisation, even before going outside.<br><\/p> <\/div> <\/div>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Struggling with a new puppy? This puppy training schedule (8\u201316 weeks) gives you a simple daily routine for potty training, feeding, sleep, and training your puppy at home.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":9093,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"inline_featured_image":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[107],"tags":[150,151,152],"class_list":["post-10149","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-training-basics","tag-breed-specific-blog","tag-puppy-training-blog","tag-toilet-training-blog"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v27.1.1 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Puppy Training Schedule (8\u201316 Weeks): Daily Routine &amp; Plan<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Follow a puppy training schedule for 8\u201316 weeks. Learn daily routines for potty training, feeding, sleep, and training your puppy at home.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/zigzag.dog\/en-us\/blog\/puppy-training\/training-basics\/ultimate-puppy-training-guide\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"Puppy Training Schedule (8\u201316 Weeks): Daily Routine &amp; Plan\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Follow a puppy training schedule for 8\u201316 weeks. Learn daily routines for potty training, feeding, sleep, and training your puppy at home.\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/zigzag.dog\/en-us\/blog\/puppy-training\/training-basics\/ultimate-puppy-training-guide\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"Zigzag Puppy Training App\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:publisher\" content=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/zigzag.dogs\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:published_time\" content=\"2021-04-23T11:50:06+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:modified_time\" content=\"2026-04-20T13:43:38+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:image\" content=\"https:\/\/zigzag.dog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/it-takes-8-to-be-great.png\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:width\" content=\"1080\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:height\" content=\"1080\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:type\" content=\"image\/png\" \/>\n<meta name=\"author\" content=\"Lorna Winter\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:creator\" content=\"@zigzag_puppy\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:site\" content=\"@zigzag_puppy\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:label1\" content=\"Written by\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data1\" content=\"Lorna Winter\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:label2\" content=\"Est. reading time\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data2\" content=\"57 minutes\" \/>\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\" class=\"yoast-schema-graph\">{\"@context\":\"https:\/\/schema.org\",\"@graph\":[{\"@type\":\"Article\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/zigzag.dog\/en-us\/blog\/puppy-training\/training-basics\/ultimate-puppy-training-guide\/#article\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/zigzag.dog\/en-us\/blog\/puppy-training\/training-basics\/ultimate-puppy-training-guide\/\"},\"author\":{\"name\":\"Lorna Winter\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/zigzag.dog\/en-us\/#\/schema\/person\/3ea6303f06f622f31dcb83a2edf2e4c9\"},\"headline\":\"Week-by-Week Puppy Training Schedule (8\u201316 Weeks)\",\"datePublished\":\"2021-04-23T11:50:06+00:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-04-20T13:43:38+00:00\",\"mainEntityOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/zigzag.dog\/en-us\/blog\/puppy-training\/training-basics\/ultimate-puppy-training-guide\/\"},\"wordCount\":1018,\"commentCount\":0,\"publisher\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/zigzag.dog\/en-us\/#organization\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/zigzag.dog\/en-us\/blog\/puppy-training\/training-basics\/ultimate-puppy-training-guide\/#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\/\/zigzag.dog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/it-takes-8-to-be-great.png\",\"keywords\":[\"Breed Specific Blog\",\"Puppy Training Blog\",\"Toilet Training Blog\"],\"articleSection\":[\"Training Basics\"],\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"CommentAction\",\"name\":\"Comment\",\"target\":[\"https:\/\/zigzag.dog\/en-us\/blog\/puppy-training\/training-basics\/ultimate-puppy-training-guide\/#respond\"]}]},{\"@type\":[\"WebPage\",\"FAQPage\"],\"@id\":\"https:\/\/zigzag.dog\/en-us\/blog\/puppy-training\/training-basics\/ultimate-puppy-training-guide\/\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/zigzag.dog\/en-us\/blog\/puppy-training\/training-basics\/ultimate-puppy-training-guide\/\",\"name\":\"Puppy Training Schedule (8\u201316 Weeks): Daily Routine & Plan\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/zigzag.dog\/en-us\/#website\"},\"primaryImageOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/zigzag.dog\/en-us\/blog\/puppy-training\/training-basics\/ultimate-puppy-training-guide\/#primaryimage\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/zigzag.dog\/en-us\/blog\/puppy-training\/training-basics\/ultimate-puppy-training-guide\/#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\/\/zigzag.dog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/it-takes-8-to-be-great.png\",\"datePublished\":\"2021-04-23T11:50:06+00:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-04-20T13:43:38+00:00\",\"description\":\"Follow a puppy training schedule for 8\u201316 weeks. Learn daily routines for potty training, feeding, sleep, and training your puppy at home.\",\"breadcrumb\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/zigzag.dog\/en-us\/blog\/puppy-training\/training-basics\/ultimate-puppy-training-guide\/#breadcrumb\"},\"mainEntity\":[{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/zigzag.dog\/en-us\/blog\/puppy-training\/training-basics\/ultimate-puppy-training-guide\/#faq-question-1776688987107\"},{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/zigzag.dog\/en-us\/blog\/puppy-training\/training-basics\/ultimate-puppy-training-guide\/#faq-question-1776689014239\"},{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/zigzag.dog\/en-us\/blog\/puppy-training\/training-basics\/ultimate-puppy-training-guide\/#faq-question-1776689036939\"},{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/zigzag.dog\/en-us\/blog\/puppy-training\/training-basics\/ultimate-puppy-training-guide\/#faq-question-1776689084108\"}],\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"ReadAction\",\"target\":[\"https:\/\/zigzag.dog\/en-us\/blog\/puppy-training\/training-basics\/ultimate-puppy-training-guide\/\"]}]},{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/zigzag.dog\/en-us\/blog\/puppy-training\/training-basics\/ultimate-puppy-training-guide\/#primaryimage\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/zigzag.dog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/it-takes-8-to-be-great.png\",\"contentUrl\":\"https:\/\/zigzag.dog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/it-takes-8-to-be-great.png\",\"width\":1080,\"height\":1080},{\"@type\":\"BreadcrumbList\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/zigzag.dog\/en-us\/blog\/puppy-training\/training-basics\/ultimate-puppy-training-guide\/#breadcrumb\",\"itemListElement\":[{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"position\":1,\"name\":\"Home\",\"item\":\"https:\/\/zigzag.dog\/en-us\/2024-homepage\/\"},{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"position\":2,\"name\":\"Week-by-Week Puppy Training Schedule (8\u201316 Weeks)\"}]},{\"@type\":\"WebSite\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/zigzag.dog\/en-us\/#website\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/zigzag.dog\/en-us\/\",\"name\":\"Zigzag Puppy Training App\",\"description\":\"Puppy Training App\",\"publisher\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/zigzag.dog\/en-us\/#organization\"},\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"SearchAction\",\"target\":{\"@type\":\"EntryPoint\",\"urlTemplate\":\"https:\/\/zigzag.dog\/en-us\/?s={search_term_string}\"},\"query-input\":{\"@type\":\"PropertyValueSpecification\",\"valueRequired\":true,\"valueName\":\"search_term_string\"}}],\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/zigzag.dog\/en-us\/#organization\",\"name\":\"Zigzag - Puppy Training App\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/zigzag.dog\/en-us\/\",\"logo\":{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/zigzag.dog\/en-us\/#\/schema\/logo\/image\/\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/zigzag.dog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/Logo_Color.svg\",\"contentUrl\":\"https:\/\/zigzag.dog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/Logo_Color.svg\",\"width\":\"1024\",\"height\":\"1024\",\"caption\":\"Zigzag - Puppy Training App\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/zigzag.dog\/en-us\/#\/schema\/logo\/image\/\"},\"sameAs\":[\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/zigzag.dogs\/\",\"https:\/\/x.com\/zigzag_puppy\",\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/zigzag.dog\/\",\"https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/company\/zigzag-dog\/\",\"https:\/\/www.pinterest.co.uk\/zigzag_dog\/\"]},{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/zigzag.dog\/en-us\/#\/schema\/person\/3ea6303f06f622f31dcb83a2edf2e4c9\",\"name\":\"Lorna Winter\",\"image\":{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/zigzag.dog\/en-us\/#\/schema\/person\/image\/\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/e2d60ab13222f3fee0bee1fa7d9178ef1292f32e9634527f766cc54c0a257505?s=96&d=mm&r=g\",\"contentUrl\":\"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/e2d60ab13222f3fee0bee1fa7d9178ef1292f32e9634527f766cc54c0a257505?s=96&d=mm&r=g\",\"caption\":\"Lorna Winter\"},\"sameAs\":[\"https:\/\/zigzag.dog\"]},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/zigzag.dog\/en-us\/blog\/puppy-training\/training-basics\/ultimate-puppy-training-guide\/#faq-question-1776688987107\",\"position\":1,\"url\":\"https:\/\/zigzag.dog\/en-us\/blog\/puppy-training\/training-basics\/ultimate-puppy-training-guide\/#faq-question-1776688987107\",\"name\":\"What should I teach my puppy first?\",\"answerCount\":1,\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"Start with toilet training. Then move on to name recognition, followed by crate training, sit, and recall.\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/zigzag.dog\/en-us\/blog\/puppy-training\/training-basics\/ultimate-puppy-training-guide\/#faq-question-1776689014239\",\"position\":2,\"url\":\"https:\/\/zigzag.dog\/en-us\/blog\/puppy-training\/training-basics\/ultimate-puppy-training-guide\/#faq-question-1776689014239\",\"name\":\"How long should training sessions be?\",\"answerCount\":1,\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"The key rule here is: 'short and sweet sessions':<br>-1\u20135 minutes<br>-Multiple times a day<br>-End on a win and they will <em>want<\/em> to train again.\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/zigzag.dog\/en-us\/blog\/puppy-training\/training-basics\/ultimate-puppy-training-guide\/#faq-question-1776689036939\",\"position\":3,\"url\":\"https:\/\/zigzag.dog\/en-us\/blog\/puppy-training\/training-basics\/ultimate-puppy-training-guide\/#faq-question-1776689036939\",\"name\":\"What's the best schedule for an 8-week old puppy?\",\"answerCount\":1,\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"-Frequent toilet breaks<br>-4 meals<br>-Lots of sleep<br>-Short training sessions<br>-Gentle socialisation<br>Keep it simple and consistent.\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/zigzag.dog\/en-us\/blog\/puppy-training\/training-basics\/ultimate-puppy-training-guide\/#faq-question-1776689084108\",\"position\":4,\"url\":\"https:\/\/zigzag.dog\/en-us\/blog\/puppy-training\/training-basics\/ultimate-puppy-training-guide\/#faq-question-1776689084108\",\"name\":\"My puppy can't go outside yet - what can I do?\",\"answerCount\":1,\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"<strong>The good news is you can still socialise safely at home. That includes things like:<\/strong><br>-New sounds<br>-Different surfaces<br>-Visitors<br>-Watching the outside world<br>-Car rides<br><strong>This means<\/strong> your puppy still gets important early socialisation, even before going outside.<br>\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"}]}<\/script>\n<!-- \/ Yoast SEO plugin. -->","yoast_head_json":{"title":"Puppy Training Schedule (8\u201316 Weeks): Daily Routine & Plan","description":"Follow a puppy training schedule for 8\u201316 weeks. Learn daily routines for potty training, feeding, sleep, and training your puppy at home.","robots":{"index":"index","follow":"follow","max-snippet":"max-snippet:-1","max-image-preview":"max-image-preview:large","max-video-preview":"max-video-preview:-1"},"canonical":"https:\/\/zigzag.dog\/en-us\/blog\/puppy-training\/training-basics\/ultimate-puppy-training-guide\/","og_locale":"en_US","og_type":"article","og_title":"Puppy Training Schedule (8\u201316 Weeks): Daily Routine & Plan","og_description":"Follow a puppy training schedule for 8\u201316 weeks. Learn daily routines for potty training, feeding, sleep, and training your puppy at home.","og_url":"https:\/\/zigzag.dog\/en-us\/blog\/puppy-training\/training-basics\/ultimate-puppy-training-guide\/","og_site_name":"Zigzag Puppy Training App","article_publisher":"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/zigzag.dogs\/","article_published_time":"2021-04-23T11:50:06+00:00","article_modified_time":"2026-04-20T13:43:38+00:00","og_image":[{"width":1080,"height":1080,"url":"https:\/\/zigzag.dog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/it-takes-8-to-be-great.png","type":"image\/png"}],"author":"Lorna Winter","twitter_card":"summary_large_image","twitter_creator":"@zigzag_puppy","twitter_site":"@zigzag_puppy","twitter_misc":{"Written by":"Lorna Winter","Est. reading time":"57 minutes"},"schema":{"@context":"https:\/\/schema.org","@graph":[{"@type":"Article","@id":"https:\/\/zigzag.dog\/en-us\/blog\/puppy-training\/training-basics\/ultimate-puppy-training-guide\/#article","isPartOf":{"@id":"https:\/\/zigzag.dog\/en-us\/blog\/puppy-training\/training-basics\/ultimate-puppy-training-guide\/"},"author":{"name":"Lorna Winter","@id":"https:\/\/zigzag.dog\/en-us\/#\/schema\/person\/3ea6303f06f622f31dcb83a2edf2e4c9"},"headline":"Week-by-Week Puppy Training Schedule (8\u201316 Weeks)","datePublished":"2021-04-23T11:50:06+00:00","dateModified":"2026-04-20T13:43:38+00:00","mainEntityOfPage":{"@id":"https:\/\/zigzag.dog\/en-us\/blog\/puppy-training\/training-basics\/ultimate-puppy-training-guide\/"},"wordCount":1018,"commentCount":0,"publisher":{"@id":"https:\/\/zigzag.dog\/en-us\/#organization"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/zigzag.dog\/en-us\/blog\/puppy-training\/training-basics\/ultimate-puppy-training-guide\/#primaryimage"},"thumbnailUrl":"https:\/\/zigzag.dog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/it-takes-8-to-be-great.png","keywords":["Breed Specific Blog","Puppy Training Blog","Toilet Training Blog"],"articleSection":["Training Basics"],"inLanguage":"en-US","potentialAction":[{"@type":"CommentAction","name":"Comment","target":["https:\/\/zigzag.dog\/en-us\/blog\/puppy-training\/training-basics\/ultimate-puppy-training-guide\/#respond"]}]},{"@type":["WebPage","FAQPage"],"@id":"https:\/\/zigzag.dog\/en-us\/blog\/puppy-training\/training-basics\/ultimate-puppy-training-guide\/","url":"https:\/\/zigzag.dog\/en-us\/blog\/puppy-training\/training-basics\/ultimate-puppy-training-guide\/","name":"Puppy Training Schedule (8\u201316 Weeks): Daily Routine & Plan","isPartOf":{"@id":"https:\/\/zigzag.dog\/en-us\/#website"},"primaryImageOfPage":{"@id":"https:\/\/zigzag.dog\/en-us\/blog\/puppy-training\/training-basics\/ultimate-puppy-training-guide\/#primaryimage"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/zigzag.dog\/en-us\/blog\/puppy-training\/training-basics\/ultimate-puppy-training-guide\/#primaryimage"},"thumbnailUrl":"https:\/\/zigzag.dog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/it-takes-8-to-be-great.png","datePublished":"2021-04-23T11:50:06+00:00","dateModified":"2026-04-20T13:43:38+00:00","description":"Follow a puppy training schedule for 8\u201316 weeks. Learn daily routines for potty training, feeding, sleep, and training your puppy at home.","breadcrumb":{"@id":"https:\/\/zigzag.dog\/en-us\/blog\/puppy-training\/training-basics\/ultimate-puppy-training-guide\/#breadcrumb"},"mainEntity":[{"@id":"https:\/\/zigzag.dog\/en-us\/blog\/puppy-training\/training-basics\/ultimate-puppy-training-guide\/#faq-question-1776688987107"},{"@id":"https:\/\/zigzag.dog\/en-us\/blog\/puppy-training\/training-basics\/ultimate-puppy-training-guide\/#faq-question-1776689014239"},{"@id":"https:\/\/zigzag.dog\/en-us\/blog\/puppy-training\/training-basics\/ultimate-puppy-training-guide\/#faq-question-1776689036939"},{"@id":"https:\/\/zigzag.dog\/en-us\/blog\/puppy-training\/training-basics\/ultimate-puppy-training-guide\/#faq-question-1776689084108"}],"inLanguage":"en-US","potentialAction":[{"@type":"ReadAction","target":["https:\/\/zigzag.dog\/en-us\/blog\/puppy-training\/training-basics\/ultimate-puppy-training-guide\/"]}]},{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-US","@id":"https:\/\/zigzag.dog\/en-us\/blog\/puppy-training\/training-basics\/ultimate-puppy-training-guide\/#primaryimage","url":"https:\/\/zigzag.dog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/it-takes-8-to-be-great.png","contentUrl":"https:\/\/zigzag.dog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/it-takes-8-to-be-great.png","width":1080,"height":1080},{"@type":"BreadcrumbList","@id":"https:\/\/zigzag.dog\/en-us\/blog\/puppy-training\/training-basics\/ultimate-puppy-training-guide\/#breadcrumb","itemListElement":[{"@type":"ListItem","position":1,"name":"Home","item":"https:\/\/zigzag.dog\/en-us\/2024-homepage\/"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":2,"name":"Week-by-Week Puppy Training Schedule (8\u201316 Weeks)"}]},{"@type":"WebSite","@id":"https:\/\/zigzag.dog\/en-us\/#website","url":"https:\/\/zigzag.dog\/en-us\/","name":"Zigzag Puppy Training App","description":"Puppy Training App","publisher":{"@id":"https:\/\/zigzag.dog\/en-us\/#organization"},"potentialAction":[{"@type":"SearchAction","target":{"@type":"EntryPoint","urlTemplate":"https:\/\/zigzag.dog\/en-us\/?s={search_term_string}"},"query-input":{"@type":"PropertyValueSpecification","valueRequired":true,"valueName":"search_term_string"}}],"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"Organization","@id":"https:\/\/zigzag.dog\/en-us\/#organization","name":"Zigzag - Puppy Training App","url":"https:\/\/zigzag.dog\/en-us\/","logo":{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-US","@id":"https:\/\/zigzag.dog\/en-us\/#\/schema\/logo\/image\/","url":"https:\/\/zigzag.dog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/Logo_Color.svg","contentUrl":"https:\/\/zigzag.dog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/Logo_Color.svg","width":"1024","height":"1024","caption":"Zigzag - Puppy Training App"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/zigzag.dog\/en-us\/#\/schema\/logo\/image\/"},"sameAs":["https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/zigzag.dogs\/","https:\/\/x.com\/zigzag_puppy","https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/zigzag.dog\/","https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/company\/zigzag-dog\/","https:\/\/www.pinterest.co.uk\/zigzag_dog\/"]},{"@type":"Person","@id":"https:\/\/zigzag.dog\/en-us\/#\/schema\/person\/3ea6303f06f622f31dcb83a2edf2e4c9","name":"Lorna Winter","image":{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-US","@id":"https:\/\/zigzag.dog\/en-us\/#\/schema\/person\/image\/","url":"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/e2d60ab13222f3fee0bee1fa7d9178ef1292f32e9634527f766cc54c0a257505?s=96&d=mm&r=g","contentUrl":"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/e2d60ab13222f3fee0bee1fa7d9178ef1292f32e9634527f766cc54c0a257505?s=96&d=mm&r=g","caption":"Lorna Winter"},"sameAs":["https:\/\/zigzag.dog"]},{"@type":"Question","@id":"https:\/\/zigzag.dog\/en-us\/blog\/puppy-training\/training-basics\/ultimate-puppy-training-guide\/#faq-question-1776688987107","position":1,"url":"https:\/\/zigzag.dog\/en-us\/blog\/puppy-training\/training-basics\/ultimate-puppy-training-guide\/#faq-question-1776688987107","name":"What should I teach my puppy first?","answerCount":1,"acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"Start with toilet training. Then move on to name recognition, followed by crate training, sit, and recall.","inLanguage":"en-US"},"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"Question","@id":"https:\/\/zigzag.dog\/en-us\/blog\/puppy-training\/training-basics\/ultimate-puppy-training-guide\/#faq-question-1776689014239","position":2,"url":"https:\/\/zigzag.dog\/en-us\/blog\/puppy-training\/training-basics\/ultimate-puppy-training-guide\/#faq-question-1776689014239","name":"How long should training sessions be?","answerCount":1,"acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"The key rule here is: 'short and sweet sessions':<br>-1\u20135 minutes<br>-Multiple times a day<br>-End on a win and they will <em>want<\/em> to train again.","inLanguage":"en-US"},"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"Question","@id":"https:\/\/zigzag.dog\/en-us\/blog\/puppy-training\/training-basics\/ultimate-puppy-training-guide\/#faq-question-1776689036939","position":3,"url":"https:\/\/zigzag.dog\/en-us\/blog\/puppy-training\/training-basics\/ultimate-puppy-training-guide\/#faq-question-1776689036939","name":"What's the best schedule for an 8-week old puppy?","answerCount":1,"acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"-Frequent toilet breaks<br>-4 meals<br>-Lots of sleep<br>-Short training sessions<br>-Gentle socialisation<br>Keep it simple and consistent.","inLanguage":"en-US"},"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"Question","@id":"https:\/\/zigzag.dog\/en-us\/blog\/puppy-training\/training-basics\/ultimate-puppy-training-guide\/#faq-question-1776689084108","position":4,"url":"https:\/\/zigzag.dog\/en-us\/blog\/puppy-training\/training-basics\/ultimate-puppy-training-guide\/#faq-question-1776689084108","name":"My puppy can't go outside yet - what can I do?","answerCount":1,"acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"<strong>The good news is you can still socialise safely at home. That includes things like:<\/strong><br>-New sounds<br>-Different surfaces<br>-Visitors<br>-Watching the outside world<br>-Car rides<br><strong>This means<\/strong> your puppy still gets important early socialisation, even before going outside.<br>","inLanguage":"en-US"},"inLanguage":"en-US"}]}},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/zigzag.dog\/en-us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/10149","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/zigzag.dog\/en-us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/zigzag.dog\/en-us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/zigzag.dog\/en-us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/zigzag.dog\/en-us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=10149"}],"version-history":[{"count":8,"href":"https:\/\/zigzag.dog\/en-us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/10149\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":32791,"href":"https:\/\/zigzag.dog\/en-us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/10149\/revisions\/32791"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/zigzag.dog\/en-us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/9093"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/zigzag.dog\/en-us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=10149"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/zigzag.dog\/en-us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=10149"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/zigzag.dog\/en-us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=10149"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}