The Best Age to Start Training Your Dog

(And Why Sooner Is Better)

If you’re a dog owner in Columbus, Ohio, you may be wondering: When is the best time to start training my puppy or dog? Whether you’re dealing with a brand-new puppy or an older dog, the answer might surprise you—the earlier, the better. At OverWatch K9 Academy, we’ve helped hundreds of local families transform their dogs through our board and train programs, and it all starts with timing.

Obedience training isn’t just about teaching commands—it’s about building a language between you and your dog. The earlier that communication begins, the more confident, obedient, and well-adjusted your dog will become. Puppies are like sponges: they absorb structure and rules quickly, especially during their critical socialization window (typically between 8 and 16 weeks of age).

Missing this window can lead to bad habits, anxiety, or reactivity down the road. Puppies start learning immediately—regardless of whether you’re teaching them, they are absorbing information. That’s why starting training early isn’t just helpful—it’s essential.

As early as 8 weeks old. That’s right—you don’t have to wait until your dog is older to begin. In fact, the earlier you start, the better the long-term results. At OverWatch K9 Academy in Columbus, we offer a Puppy Pre-K Board and Train program and In-Home Puppy Lessons designed specifically for puppies 8 weeks and older. We focus on:

• Socialization with people and environments

• Crate training and foundational manners

• Preventing unwanted behaviors (like jumping and chewing)

• Introductory obedience: sit, down, place, recall, leash pressure

By the time your puppy finishes, you’ll have a dog that is confident, respectful, and eager to learn more.

Absolutely. Whether your dog is 1, 5, or 10 years old, it’s never too late to start training. In fact, many of our clients in Columbus are working professionals or busy families with older dogs that use our services for reliable obedience—regardless of age.

Our Obedience Board and Train program is designed for dogs of all ages and includes:

• On-leash and off-leash obedience

• Manners around guests, food, and thresholds

• Field trips to parks and stores for real-world distractions

• Clear communication system built by our trainers and passed on to you

We believe in results that last. That’s why we include lifetime support with our training programs—so you’re never alone in your dog’s journey.

While private lessons have their place, many dog owners in Columbus choose board and train for faster, more reliable results. Here’s why:

• Immersive structure: Your dog lives with a professional trainer who works with them daily.
• Real-world experience: Dogs are trained in homes, parks, and stores—not just a training room.
• Convenience: You don’t have to struggle through early training on your own.
• Proven success: Board and train consistently delivers confident, well-mannered dogs.

And at OverWatch K9, your dog isn’t just a student—they’re family. We focus on motivation, clear structure, and customized training based on your goals.

Whether you’re in Columbus, Dublin, New Albany, Powell, Westerville, or beyond, we’re proud to serve families all across the metro area. Our in-home board and train model means your dog lives and trains with a professional in a calm, structured environment—not a chaotic kennel.

We help your dog become the best version of themselves—and give you the tools to enjoy them to the fullest.

OverWatch K9 Academy offers professional board and train dog training in Columbus, Ohio. Whether your dog is 8 weeks or 8 years old, our experienced trainers are ready to help. Contact us today to reserve your spot and start your dog’s journey toward obedience and freedom.