Setting the Foundation
The first three months with your SouthEast Doodles puppy dictate their lifelong habits. Because Goldendoodles and Cockapoos are incredibly intelligent, they learn very quickly—both good habits and bad ones!
The First 30 Days (Weeks 8-12): Safety, Potty, & Crate
Your primary goals this month are establishing a routine and making the puppy feel secure.
- Potty Training: Take the puppy out immediately after waking, after eating, after vigorous play, and every 1-2 hours. Praise heavily and use a high-value treat immediately upon finishing outside.
- Crate Training: The crate is their safe den, never a punishment. Feed meals in the crate with the door open to build positive association.
- Name Recognition & "Look at Me": Say their name in a happy tone. When they make eye contact, mark ("Yes!") and reward.
- Bite Inhibition: When puppy teeth hit human skin, say a firm "Ouch!" and redirect to an appropriate chew toy.
The Next 30 Days (Weeks 12-16): Socialization & Leash Walking
The critical socialization window closes around 16 weeks.
- Safe Socialization: Since they aren't fully vaccinated yet, carry them in public or use a dog stroller to expose them to new sights, sounds, surfaces, and people. Avoid dog parks or pet store floors.
- Leash Introduction: Let them drag a lightweight leash around the house under supervision. Practice walking around the living room or backyard using treats to keep them by your side.
- Basic Commands: Introduce Sit, Down, and Touch. Keep training sessions incredibly short (3-5 minutes, a few times a day).
The 90-Day Mark (Weeks 16-20): Proofing & Independence
Your puppy should now be fully vaccinated and ready to explore the world on foot.
- Building Independence: Practice leaving the puppy alone in their crate or pen for gradually increasing periods to prevent separation anxiety.
- Recall (Come): Practice "Come" on a long lead in safe outdoor spaces. Make coming back to you the best thing in the world. Never call a dog to you to punish them or do something unpleasant (like a bath).
- Professional Classes: Enroll in a positive-reinforcement puppy kindergarten class. It’s excellent for structured socialization and troubleshooting adolescent behaviors.