Puppy Training FAQs for New Chicago Dog Parents
Got a new puppy in Chicago? Congrats! 🎉 Now comes the fun (and sometimes messy) part: training your pup to be calm, confident, and well-behaved in the city.
We get a lot of questions from new dog parents, so here are the answers to the most common puppy training questions we hear in Chicago.
1. When should I start training my puppy?
Right away! Training can start as early as the moment you bring your pup home, even if they’re only 8 weeks old. Puppies are always learning, so it’s best to teach them good habits early.
Even simple things like:
Sitting before getting food
Going potty in the right place
Waiting at the door before going out on their walk
All of that can start from day one.
2. How do I potty train a puppy in a Chicago apartment?
It’s totally possible, even if you live on the 11th floor!
Tips:
Take your pup out every 1–2 hours at first.
Pick a potty spot nearby and stick to it.
Praise them right away when they go outside.
Use a crate or pen to help when you can’t supervise them.
In a high rise? Use porch potties or pee pads to make your life easier in the beginning.
Pro tip: Keep your shoes and coat by the door. You’ll thank yourself at 3 AM!
3. Why won’t my puppy listen?
They’re just a baby! Puppies have short attention spans and need help learning what you want. Most don’t “ignore” you, they just don’t understand what you’re asking yet.
Use small, smelly treats that they don’t get in every day life and a happy voice. Keep your training sessions short (5 minutes is great!) and fun. Always end on a good note.
4. What should my puppy know by 6 months?
By 6 months, most Chicago puppies can…
Learn how to sit, stay, and come when called
Be mostly potty trained
Be calm in a crate or pen
Feel okay around new people, dogs, and loud sounds (like buses or sirens)
5. Do I need puppy group training classes?
We love group classes for pups. Puppy classes are great for:
Safe socialization (meeting new people, sights, and sounds) led by trainers
Basic training skills to help your dog thrive in a city environment
Learning how to stop jumping, puppy biting, or barking
Bonding with your pup! What makes you a cooler puppy parent than taking them somewhere new?
At Copilot, we keep classes small, friendly, and fun so your puppy gets the attention they need.
6. What about socializing during Chicago winters?
Oof.. Chicago winters. We get it.
Socialization doesn’t just mean meeting dogs or play time—it means positive new experiences. Try…
Sitting by a window and giving your pup a treat each time a person or dog walks by
Setting up indoor enrichment games like snuffle mats and treat puzzles
Doing confidence building activities like climbing over cushions or walking on new textures (like bubble wrap or cardboard)
Playing sound videos (sirens, fireworks, doorbells) at a super low volume—keep it short and sweet! You’re not trying to scare them, just help them get used to new sounds
Go slow and make it all of these activities feel safe and happy.
Ready to start training?
Check out our puppy classes and playgroups!