Faithful Foundations: Training a Puppy in Obedience with a Heart for God
Moses 15 weeks
Bringing a new puppy into your home is a joyful experience. Moses has been full of energy, cuddles, and a bit of chaos. We’ve already made 1 additional trip to the vet for an x-ray from rock ingestion.
But as any dog owner knows, obedience training is essential not just for peace in the home, but for building a strong, trusting relationship. As believers, we can find beautiful parallels between training a puppy and our own walk with God.
Here are three reflections on obedience training:
1. Obedience Begins with Relationship
Just as a puppy learns best from someone they trust, our obedience to God flows from a relationship built on love. When we spend time with our dogs, playing, feeding, and caring for them, they begin to understand our voice and respond to our guidance. In the same way, when we spend time in prayer and Scripture, we learn to recognize God’s voice and follow His lead.
“My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me.” – John 10:27
2. Consistency Builds Character
Training a puppy requires patience and consistency. Commands must be repeated, boundaries reinforced, and praise given generously. God trains us in much the same way through daily disciplines, gentle correction, and unwavering love. When we are consistent in our walk with Him, our character is shaped to reflect Christ.
“No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it.” – Hebrews 12:11
3. Grace in the Mess
Puppies will make mistakes. So will we. But obedience training isn’t about perfection, it’s about progress. We offer grace to our dogs as they learn, just as God offers grace to us. I work not to be punitive to instill loving correction instead of fear. Each stumble is an opportunity to grow, to learn, and to lean into the love that never gives up on us even when a Moses boy bring a large stick into my house 😉
“The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; His mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning.” – Lamentations 3:22-23
Training a puppy in obedience is more than a task—it’s a journey of love, patience, and growth. And in that journey, we’re reminded of the faithful way our Heavenly Father trains, guides, and loves us.
Sandy
