Boston Terrier puppies are friendly and intelligent creatures that are easy to train. A wonderful companion, your new pup is a lively, non-sporting breed that will get along well with people and other pets. Here are 10 tips to help you train your Boston Terrier puppy.

1. Let him learn naturally

Wait until your puppy is at least 10 weeks old before bringing him home, as he needs the first few weeks of interaction with his mother and siblings to understand the natural pecking order of dogs.

2. Fast learners

Remember, your pup is a fast learner and will pick up both good and bad habits quickly. Race to instill what you consider to be good habits. The first year is the most active learning period for your puppies.

3. Sensitive students

These are sensitive dogs, so be careful not to hurt your pups’ feelings or overpower them in the training process. Training these kids can be fun, so try to be an assertive and patient trainer who isn’t easily distracted.

4. Fixed routine

Happy dogs need an established routine and it’s your responsibility to make sure walks, bathing and feeding times are consistently maintained. Get your puppy used to a fixed routine at an early age to prevent him from acting out out of boredom or insecurity.

5. Potty training

Potty training should start from the day you bring your new friend home. Puppies need to urinate every few hours, so watch for signs and take him out regularly. If the puppy soils prohibited areas, scold him and take him out where he should urinate, but never punish him.

6. Teach a keyword

Use a word like “Yes” or the phrase “Good boy” constantly so your dog knows things you approve of. This will speed up obedience training. Start by calling the puppy by his name. Every time he answers, use the keyword and reward him with a treat.

7. Instill social manners

A good way to avoid an aggression problem is to teach your puppy to interact with others from an early age. Boston Terriers can be moody around other dogs, so let your pup make canine and human friends at home and at the dog park.

8. Encourage good behavior

To get your puppy to behave how you want it to behave instead of how you are inclined to behave, you need to reward the puppy for doing as you please. Every time your pup obeys or responds to her instructions, pamper her!

9. Avoid carrying

Unless you want an overprotective little terrier, avoid picking up your pup when you take him out to pee or play. Don’t pick it up during training sessions either, as your pup shouldn’t get used to being picked up.

10. Teaching limits

Keep the puppy penned up in a large, comfortable space where you or your family hang out. This will help him understand his limits and the fact that he is not welcome in certain parts of the house. Box training is also a good alternative.