Bringing a puppy into your life is exciting, but training is where the real journey begins. Whether you are raising a gentle giant or a lively little companion, knowing how to train a large breed puppy versus a small breed puppy is vital for creating a well-mannered, confident and happy dog.
While the foundations of training and socialisation are similar for all breeds, there are differences in approach. Large breed pups need early guidance to manage their strength and size, while small breeds often require extra patience to prevent nervous behaviours. Using the right dog training methods, supported by modern tools like the Zigzag app, which tailors lessons to both large and small breeds, makes the process far smoother.
Why early training matters
Early training is essential for every puppy. Habits form quickly, so start young with short, frequent training sessions. Puppies absorb experiences like sponges, making this the best time to teach commands such as sit, down, fetch, or touch. Early socialisation with people, other dogs and varied environments sets the stage for calm and adaptable behaviour later on.
Large breeds benefit from boundaries straight away, as behaviours like jumping up or pulling on the lead can become difficult to control once they grow. Small breeds, meanwhile, often need reassurance so they do not develop fearfulness or excessive barking.
How Zigzag helps both large and small breed owners
The Zigzag app offers breed-specific training lessons, meaning whether you are handling a lively Labrador or a tiny Chihuahua, the programme adapts to your needs. From early training and socialisation to advanced recall, Zigzag provides practical advice that fits easily into daily life. If you are new to dog ownership, start with simple commands, establish routines and build trust. Use short sessions, positive reinforcement and early socialisation. Digital tools, such as Zigzag, provide step-by-step guidance so beginners don’t feel overwhelmed.
The importance of consistency and routine
Consistency and routine create security. Puppies learn best when they know what to expect—set feeding times, neighbourhood walks, nap schedules and play sessions. Clear repetition of cues, rewards and boundaries avoids confusion and helps obedience become second nature.
Remember the three C’s of dog training: consistency, communication and confidence. Stick to these and your puppy will thrive.
Building trust through positive reinforcement
Positive reinforcement, using treats, praise and affection, forms the backbone of reward-based methods. Dogs repeat behaviours that earn them something pleasant. A cheerful “good boy” or “good girl”, gentle petting or a small treat given instantly after the correct action builds enthusiasm for learning.
Avoid harsh corrections. Whether you’re training big dogs or tiny ones, patience and persistence always achieve more than punishment.
How to train a large breed puppy vs a small breed puppy
Large and small breeds have very different requirements in terms of training methods and boundaries that need to be set.
Large breed puppies
- Strength management: teach loose-lead walking early to avoid pulling once they gain weight
- Boundaries: prevent undesirable behaviours like climbing onto furniture without permission
- Handling: get them comfortable with ears, paws and mouths being touched for vet checks and grooming
Small breed puppies
- Confidence-building: frequent exposure to new sights, sounds, and gentle handling reduces nervousness
- Preventing over-indulgence: it is tempting to carry them everywhere, but leash training and walking builds independence
- Avoiding “small dog syndrome”: set clear rules and boundaries just as you would with a large dog
Creating effective training sessions
Keep sessions short, two to five minutes, several times a day. Incorporate practice into daily life, such as asking for a sit before putting down the food bowl.
This keeps learning fun and natural, while reinforcing calm and firm leadership. These are simple but effective dog training methods that suit beginners and experienced owners alike.
Training and socialisation in different environments
Introducing new sights and sounds
Start with quiet places, then gradually build to busier areas like parks or high streets. Use treats and praise to encourage curiosity and bravery
Polite manners around strangers
Both large and small breeds need guidance. Encourage sitting calmly before greeting people, only allowing interaction once the puppy is settled.
Calm and firm leadership
Dogs look for reassurance. A steady tone, calm actions and consistent rules give puppies confidence and prevent confusion.
What is the 10-10-10 rule for puppy training?
The 10-10-10 rule suggests training for 10 minutes, three times a day. This keeps sessions short, effective and engaging without overwhelming your puppy.
How to discipline a large puppy
Discipline does not mean punishment. Redirect energy into positive outlets, remove attention for unwanted behaviour, and reward desirable choices. For example, if a large pup jumps up, turn away and only offer praise when all four paws are on the floor.
What’s the hardest puppy to train?
No single breed is “the hardest”. However, stubborn or independent breeds can test patience. Large working breeds may push boundaries, while small toy breeds can be wilful or easily distracted. Consistency, reward-based methods and tools like the Zigzag app give all owners a fair advantage.
How to control big dogs
Controlling big dogs requires planning and calm leadership. Focus on leash training, teaching calm greetings and reinforcing recall. Setting clear rules and boundaries from day one ensures their strength is managed safely and responsibly.
How to teach dog obedience
Obedience training is about building a bond of trust and respect. Teaching commands like stay, leave it and recall helps prevent unsafe situations. Over time, this strengthens the relationship between you and your dog. With patience and persistence, even the most spirited puppy learns self-control.
By combining expert guidance with your patience and persistence, Zigzag helps prevent undesirable behaviours, supports leash training and makes the process enjoyable for both owner and pup.
Knowing how to train a large breed puppy versus a small breed puppy comes down to balance: early training, consistency, positive reinforcement and patience. Adapt your methods to your puppy’s size and personality, and always keep training rewarding. With calm leadership and the right resources, your dog will grow into a confident, well-behaved companion you can be proud of.
