Hey there, fellow dog parent! I'm thrilled you're here — bringing home a new puppy is like adding a tiny tornado of joy (and maybe a little chaos) to your life. We’re sharing 10 puppy training tips that every new OC dog owner should know. Let's dive in!
Feeling excited and a little overwhelmed? Totally normal. Whether you're strolling through Huntington Dog Beach or setting up your pup’s first bed, this guide is your new best friend (after your dog, of course).
Before we get into techniques, let’s lay the foundation. Puppy training isn’t just about commands — it’s about building a bond that lasts a lifetime.
The Essential Puppy Toolkit
Training Gear
- Adjustable collar
- 6 ft + 15 ft leashes
- Clicker & treat pouch
- Training mat
- High-value treats
- Portable water bowl
Home Setup
- Crate with divider
- Exercise pen
- Non-slip mats
- Puppy gates
- Cleaning supplies:
- Enzymatic cleaner
- Disinfectant wipes
- Odor neutralizer
Recommended Spots:
- OC Pup Scouts: Obedience, socialization, specialty training
- Fashion Island & South Coast Plaza (off-peak)
- Local parks: Crystal Cove, Irvine Regional, Newport Back Bay
- Dog beaches: Huntington, Laguna
- Morning sessions: 6–9 AM
- Evenings after 6 PM
- Indoor training during mid-day heat
- Beach training with sun safety
Remember: Dogs are more focused when it’s cooler outside. Avoid mid-day heat!
- Fashion Island
- Irvine Spectrum Center
- Newport Beach Boardwalk
- Corona del Mar State Beach
- Orange County Marketplace
Coastal Elements
- Beach sounds and waves
- Marine life encounters
- Boardwalk activity
- Surf culture acclimation
Urban Training
- Shopping center navigation
- Outdoor dining spaces
- Trail systems
- Park environments
- Local vet check-ups
- Vaccination schedules
- Heat safety monitoring
- Coastal parasite prevention
Short-term Wins
- Basic commands mastery
- Comfort in new environments
- Heat tolerance
- Leash etiquette at the beach
Long-term Goals
- Reliable off-leash work
- Confidence in public OC spaces
- Strong recall on trails/beach
- Advanced training with distractions
Every dog is unique. Make sure to communicate any of the following with your trainer or care provider:
- Separation anxiety or calming routines
- Medical conditions or red flags
- Energy levels + exercise needs
- Dog-to-dog social preferences
- Triggers to avoid
- Grooming sensitivities
- Preferred walking habits
- Weather sensitivities (e.g. heat)
- Favorite games or motivators
Your dog’s journey is a marathon, not a sprint. Celebrate the small wins, be patient, and enjoy building a strong bond in the best place to raise a pup — Orange County!
