Puppy Training in Muskegon, MI
Bringing a puppy home is exciting. It's also chaotic in very specific, very predictable ways. The biting, the accidents, the sudden fear of random objects, the selective hearing. None of this means you're failing. It means your puppy's brain is developing, fast and unevenly.
​Effective puppy training starts with understanding how puppies grow. Between 8 and 16 weeks, puppies are in a critical learning and socialization period. This is when they form opinions about people, dogs environments, and handling. Without the right guidance, this stage often creates fearfulness, sensitivity to noise, or avoidance behaviors that show up months later.
​As puppies move into the juvenile stage, typically around 4 to 6 months, new challenges appear. Teething increases biting and chewing. Attention drops. Previously learned behaviors seem to "disappear." This isn't regression. Its a normal developmental phase where impulse control hasn't caught up to curiosity or energy.
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​My puppy training programs are built around these stages. As a certified, positive reinforcement dog trainer, I work with you in your home to address the problems that are most common at your puppies current age, while also preparing for what's coming next. Training focuses on foundational skills like calm handling, house training, attention, leash skills, and appropriate play, all taught in ways a developing puppy can process.
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​Early training isn't about perfection. It's about preventing bigger behavior problems before they form. When puppies learn how to settle, communicate, and navigate frustration early, they're far less likely to develop reactivity, anxiety, or impulse-driven behaviors later on.
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​If you're looking for puppy training in Muskegon or the surrounding west Michigan area, this program provides structure, clarity, and professional guidance during the most influential stage of your dogs life
Common Puppy Challenges By Age
Why Stage-Based Training Matters
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Addressing challenges as they appear, while preparing for what comes next, sets your puppy up for long term success. Every stage has predictable behaviors, and knowing what to expect allows you to respond calmly, consistently, and effectively - creating a confident, well adjusted dog.
8-12 Weeks - The Socialization Window
Your puppy is learning what's normal in the world. They may be nervous around new people, other dogs, or household noises. Biting and mouthing are common as they explore their mouths. This is the perfect time for gentle, positive exposure to, sights, sounds, and handling.
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12-16 Weeks - Learning and Teething
Teething starts to intensify. Chewing furniture or shoes becomes a real problem. Puppies also test boundaries and may ignore basic commands as their curiosity spikes. Consistent reinforcement of gentle limits and redirection to appropriate toys helps them learn what's acceptable.
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4-6 Months - Juvenile Independence
Impulse control is still developing. Puppies may start ignoring cues they previously followed, pull on the leash, or display increased energy or frustration. This stage benefits from structured training sessions, mental stimulation, and reinforcement of basic skills.
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6-12 Months - Adolescence
Hormones kick in and confidence rises, sometimes leading to stubbornness, selective attention, or reactivity toward other dogs. Ongoing reinforcement, continued socialization, and consistent routines help prevent long-term behavior issues.
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Ready to Give Your Puppy the Best Start?
Don't wait until small challenges turn into big problems. With in-home, stage-base training, you'll learn exactly how to guide your puppy through each phase of growth - building calm, confident behavior from day one.
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Schedule your first session today
Book Your Puppy Training Session
Spaces are limited, and early guidance makes all the difference. Start now and set your puppy up for a lifetime of good habits.