Game #1: Puppy Push-Ups
Sit, down, stand, stay, come—these are the basics your puppy needs to learn.
Always have a small piece of kibble ready. Give the reward right when your puppy gets close to doing it right. Try to ignore mistakes. Instead of saying “no,” just guide your puppy to the correct action.
Use both your voice and a hand signal at the same time. Say the command once in a firm but friendly tone. If your puppy doesn’t do it, help them.
Once your puppy starts to understand, you can play “puppy push-ups.” Switch between commands in a fun, fast order. See how quickly your puppy can follow along—that’s what makes it a game!
Keep sessions short. If your puppy seems tired or bored, stop right away so it stays fun.
Newfoundlands love to work, so let them earn their meals. Before putting the food bowl down, ask your puppy to “back up” a few steps. This skill is important for draft work and everyday life.
Game #2: “Find It”
This game uses your puppy’s natural love for carrying and retrieving.
Start by tossing a toy and asking your puppy to bring it back. Reward them with kibble and praise only when they bring it to your hand and let you take it gently.
At first, you may need to show the treat so they will let go easily. Keep it simple and fun. As your puppy improves, you can start hiding the toy and asking them to find it.
Use clear words like “find it,” “hold it,” and “give.”
Later, you can show your puppy an item, hide it, and say “find it.” This game is great for using up energy indoors and helps build skills needed for water work.
Always reward your puppy, even if they are already having fun. Training is about rewarding the behavior you want.
More Fun Games to Try
Game #3: Follow the Leader
Walk around your yard or house and encourage your puppy to follow you. Change direction often and praise them for staying with you. You can add stops and ask for a sit or down. This builds attention and teamwork.
Game #4: Name Game
Say your puppy’s name in a happy voice. When they look at you, reward right away. This teaches them to focus on you, even with distractions.
Game #5: Treat TrailPlace a few pieces of kibble on the ground in a short trail. Let your puppy follow the trail to find the treats. As they improve, make the trail longer or more challenging. This builds confidence and uses their nose.
Why These Games Matter
Playing these games builds a strong bond between you and your puppy. Your puppy learns that working with you is fun and rewarding. You are guiding their natural instincts in a positive way.
Training this way is easy, enjoyable, and helps your puppy grow into a well-behaved adult dog.
How Do You Reward? Tips for Success
1. Use a firm, confident, and happy voice.
2. Expect success. If your puppy struggles, help them do it right instead of repeating commands.
3. Give bigger rewards for bigger successes (like getting it right on their own).
4. Keep your puppy healthy—use small treats so they don’t gain too much weight.
5. Always keep it fun. If it’s not fun, it won’t work.
Start these games early. Puppies can learn all of this before 16 weeks old—you can never start too soon!