Puppy Foundations (coming soon)
Coming soon. Not available yet. Puppy Foundations is a planned paid, self-paced online course for new puppy owners in Australia. It has not launched, you cannot buy it today, and everything below describes our plans, which may change.
By the Your Best Mate Team.
Who it's for
- People bringing home their first puppy, or their first in a long while, in Australia.
- Owners who want clear, step-by-step guidance rather than piecing it together from scattered advice.
- Anyone who prefers to learn at their own pace, in their own time.
What's planned
We are planning these modules:
1. Settling in and routine
Your first days and weeks, and a daily rhythm that suits a young puppy.
2. Toilet training
A calm, consistent approach to accidents, timing and set-up.
3. Crate and sleep
Introducing a crate and helping everyone get more sleep.
4. Socialisation
Safe, gentle early experiences, paced to your puppy.
5. Name, sit, drop and recall basics
The first foundation skills, taught with rewards.
6. Loose-lead walking
Starting good lead habits from the first walks.
7. Biting and chewing
Understanding mouthing and teething, and what to do about it.
Format (planned)
- Step-by-step lessons you can work through at your own pace.
- Downloadable checklists to keep handy.
The format is still being worked out and may change before anything launches.
What it isn't
- It is general, positive-reinforcement education. It is not tailored to your individual dog.
- It is not a substitute for a vet. Ask your vet about health, vaccination, parasites and anything that worries you.
- It is not a substitute for a qualified trainer or behaviourist, especially for aggression, fear or anxiety. See our guide to choosing a puppy school or trainer.
Questions
Can I buy Puppy Foundations now?
No. The course is still being planned and is not available to buy yet. Joining the waitlist is the only thing you can do for now, and it does not commit you to anything.
When will it launch, and what will it cost?
We have not set a launch date or a price, so we are not going to guess. If you join the waitlist, we will email you when we have details to share.
Is it only for Australian owners?
It is being written with Australian owners in mind, covering local conditions and terms. Anyone can join the waitlist, but the examples will be Australian.
Will it replace a vet, puppy school or trainer?
No. It is general, reward-based education only. For health questions talk to your vet, and for serious behaviour problems such as aggression or severe anxiety, see a qualified trainer or veterinary behaviourist.
Join the waitlist
In the meantime, our free new puppy checklist and first week guide are available now.