The essential early skills are the social skills - how to behave as a member of your household. Many behaviours which may appear cute in a puppy - jumping up, chewing hands or clothes, can become real problems as the dog matures - teaching your puppy not to do these things are an important part of basic training

Try to expose your puppy to as many different experiences as you can at a young age - a well socialised puppy is more likely to become a well-adjusted dog. Puppies need to meet lots of different people - both in your home and out and about, visit many different places - towns, countryside, parks, learn to socialise with different types and breeds of dogs.