Teach Your Puppy Basic Obedience Using NePoPo® Methods

Bringing home a new Cavoodle puppy in Brisbane, Spoodle puppy in QLD, or a sweet Toy Poodle puppy in QLD is an exciting time—but it’s also the perfect moment to start laying the foundation for lifelong good behaviour. 

At Sirandi, we believe in using balanced, positive training approaches that set puppies up for success from the start. One of the most effective systems we use is the NePoPo® method, which stands for Negative–Positive–Positive reinforcement.

NePoPo® isn’t about punishment—it’s about creating clear communication, motivation, and confidence in your dog. Here’s how you can begin teaching basic obedience skills at home using these principles.

1. Sit

Teaching your puppy to sit is one of the easiest and most useful commands.

How to teach:

• Hold a treat just above your puppy’s nose and slowly move it backward.

• As your puppy’s bottom hits the floor, say “Sit,” then reward.

• If they pop up too fast, wait for another sit before rewarding.

NePoPo approach: If the puppy resists or gets distracted, a gentle leash pressure (negative) guides them into position, immediately followed by verbal praise (positive) and a treat (positive).

2. Down

“Down” is a great calming command and a foundational skill.

How to teach:

• Ask for a sit.

• Lower a treat slowly between their front legs to the ground.

• As they lie down, say “Down,” and reward generously.

NePoPo tip: Be patient. Use gentle leash guidance if needed, then follow with praise and a treat once they succeed.

3. Inside (Into Crate)

Crate training is essential for routine, sleep, travel, and safety.

How to teach:

• Say “Inside” as you toss a treat into the crate.

• Let them go in freely and calmly reward.

• Use mealtime and special chew toys to build positive associations.

NePoPo note: You’re teaching that going into the crate earns rewards and calm praise, building confidence and trust.

4. Stay

Teaching “Stay” helps your dog learn patience and self-control.

How to teach:

• Start with your puppy in a sit or down.

• Hold your palm up like a stop sign and say “Stay.”

• Take one step back, pause, then return and reward.

• Gradually increase time and distance.

NePoPo layering: If they break position, calmly guide them back (negative), repeat the command, and reward success (positive + positive).

5. Come (Recall)

A reliable recall can be life-saving.

How to teach:

• Start in a distraction-free space.

• Crouch down, say your puppy’s name and “Come!” in a happy voice.

• Reward them with high-value treats and praise when they reach you.

• Never call them to punish!

NePoPo angle: Recall becomes fun and rewarding. If they hesitate, use a leash nudge (negative), followed by enthusiastic praise and reward when they respond (positive + positive).

6. Foundation Loose Lead Walking

Loose lead walking is about teamwork, not control.

How to teach:

• Start walking in a quiet space.

• Reward your puppy frequently when they walk beside you.

• Stop when they pull—this removes what they want (movement).

• Start again when the lead is loose.

NePoPo refinement: Pressure from the lead (negative) is removed the moment they return to the right position, followed by praise and a treat (positive + positive). This builds engagement, focus, and understanding.

Why Start Early?

Whether you have a Cocker Spaniel dog in Brisbane, a Cockapoo in Brisbane, or any other intelligent breed, puppies are eager to learn and bond with you. Early dog training using basic obedience skills helps prevent problem behaviours and gives your puppy the structure they need to thrive.

The NePoPo method builds thinking dogs who are confident, eager to work, and able to handle distractions. At Sirandi, we integrate this philosophy into our puppy-raising and dog training programs to help your dog become the best companion they can be.

Want help with training your puppy?

Learn more about our early training program or get advice tailored to your breed—whether it’s a Spoodle puppy in QLD, Cavoodle puppy in Brisbane, or a Toy Poodle puppy in QLD—by visiting our site or contacting us directly.