I agree with Karen. Start looking around now for where you want to take classes! I am a huge fan of group classes.
The place that I go to, the folks are APDT certified: American Pet Dog Trainers. There are other groups which certify, as well.
Learn about the trainer. You want someone who has dogs and works with them - conformation (shows), obedience, rally obedience, Agility, Flyball, something! This way they have learned to read dog body language. An yes, some places, the trainer had never owned a dog, just passed a written test.
The fee is per dog, so you and the older child can both attend, and should! (I there is another adult in the home, that person should join you as well.) In one hour, a dog won't learn much. What happens is you learn how to train the dog. Then you go home and do the homework: practice, practice, practice. This is a life long session, you keep doing drills and playing the games you learn in class for the life of the dog.
What the dog DOES learn in class, is socialization with other dogs, and socialization with people. The dog learns to follow your lead, the dog bonds with you and learns that he / she is safe with you. YOU are taking the lead, and the dog can allow you to, trusting that you will keep him / her safe.
Taking the dog to obedience classes also helps with potty training. I don't know why, and I didn't believe it at first. But I have seen it with my dogs, it DOES help!
As Karen said, the puppy must have all the puppy shots to attend classes, so you have some time. Do your research now so you know where you want to train.
The other thing you can do is make friends with some folks with dogs about your dog's size and age. Get together in fenced in areas (back yards) for doggie play dates, for about an hour. This will help your dog catch up with the things you say your dog didn't get from litter mates. This also should wait until all the shots have been given to your dog.
Having a puppy and working with the dog, seeing him / her learn commands, respect, social sks, this can all be lots of fun. Good luck!
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