🐾 Module 3: Routines & Calm HabitsThe Secret Sauce of a Well-Adjusted Dog
🧘 Why Routines MatterPuppies thrive on structure. Predictability helps reduce anxiety, support potty training, and make the world feel safer. When puppies know what to expect, they can relax — and when they relax, they learn better.
🔁 Your Daily Rhythm (Sample Flow)
🚽 Potty Training Basics
🧺 Crate Confidence & Alone TimeThe crate should be a safe haven, not a punishment box.
Introduce it gradually, with positive associations (meals, chews, calm energy).
Start practicing short absences early — while you’re still home.
💤 Preventing Over-ArousalOvertired puppies = cranky, nippy puppies.
Watch for “toddler tantrum” behaviors like zoomies, mounting, or wild biting. That’s your cue: puppy nap time.
📝 Journal PromptWhat parts of your day already have natural rhythm? Where could you add gentle structure to help your pup feel calmer?
📌 Key Takeaways
👉 Head to Module 4: Communication & Early Cues
🧘 Why Routines MatterPuppies thrive on structure. Predictability helps reduce anxiety, support potty training, and make the world feel safer. When puppies know what to expect, they can relax — and when they relax, they learn better.
🔁 Your Daily Rhythm (Sample Flow)
- Morning: Potty → light activity/play → short training → nap
- Midday: Potty → decompression walk → crate time → enrichment toy
- Evening: Potty → calm play or cuddles → dinner → wind-down → bedtime potty
🚽 Potty Training Basics
- Go outside frequently — every 1–2 hours at first
- Always reward outside potty with praise + treat
- Interrupt accidents, but don’t punish
- Crate and leash management = your best friends
🧺 Crate Confidence & Alone TimeThe crate should be a safe haven, not a punishment box.
Introduce it gradually, with positive associations (meals, chews, calm energy).
Start practicing short absences early — while you’re still home.
💤 Preventing Over-ArousalOvertired puppies = cranky, nippy puppies.
Watch for “toddler tantrum” behaviors like zoomies, mounting, or wild biting. That’s your cue: puppy nap time.
📝 Journal PromptWhat parts of your day already have natural rhythm? Where could you add gentle structure to help your pup feel calmer?
📌 Key Takeaways
- Puppies thrive on predictability. Consistent routines help your dog feel safe, reduce anxiety, and make learning easier.
- Potty training is all about timing, consistency, and management. Reward outdoor success, manage indoor freedom, and avoid punishment for accidents.
- Crates are a tool for calm and safety, not confinement. Introduce the crate gently and pair it with good things like meals, chews, and rest.
- Overtired puppies act out. Tantrums, zoomies, and wild nipping often signal that your pup needs sleep, not more stimulation.
- Structure builds freedom. The more calm habits you build now, the more freedom your dog will earn later.
👉 Head to Module 4: Communication & Early Cues