Is Fido's behavior not so cute anymore?  Maybe it's time for your puppy (and, more importantly, you) to have some lessons!

I'll start off this post with the caveat that I'm not a professional dog trainer -- in fact, some folks would say that Zach the Dog isn't even that well behaved.  But, he and I have an agreement of sorts; he behaves when it's necessary (or, at least, convenient) and it's not necessary all that often :-)

If you ignore that caveat and want to continue, then you and I will get along just fine.

First, you'll want to work with your dog right from the beginning to make sure that he recognizes his own name.  We were trained to do this by putting our dogs on a lead/leash, and then having some small treats nearby.  We'd practice by saying his name, and then rewarding him when he acknowledged the name.   You should do this several times a day, and reinforce not only with food but also with positive/cheerful affirmation.  And as the dog becomes more responsive, you can follow on with non-lead training -- the advantage of the lead is that you can use it to remind the puppy to focus on you.

Second, it's great to teach your dog to sit (and stay).  In the beginning, you'll want to say the word sit, include a hand motion (usually your palm up, and then move it in a lifting motion), and push your puppy's butt to the ground.  When he does it successfully, you reward with treats and lots of positive encouragement.  In no time at all, a simple 'sit' command will have the dog sitting (and staying, as you practice stay -- the hand motion for 'stay' is often your hand with palm to the floor, moving in a downward motion).  Again, to help with focus, a small jerk on a lead will help as well. Sit and Stay are great commands, because they can keep your dog under control when you are out walking (or if your dog is off his leash).  They really help increase the safety of your canine companion.

Third, teaching your dog to 'come' is a true lifesaver.  Usually, you'll need a long lead (30' to 40').  You'll want your dog to wander off a bit, and then give the 'come' command.  Often, you'll need to jerk the lead in the beginning (and entice with a toy), until the dog realizes what you want him to do.  Work very diligently to not chase your dog -- he will think that 'chase' is a game that you enjoy, and you'll find that he never tires of the chase game!  It's important to master the 'come' command early on, because your pet will inevitably wander off, and you'll want to safely and quickly have him return.

Finally, your pet will love it if you learn a few tricks of your own -- namely "how to procure and distribute treats", "how to give belly rubs", and "how to go for walks".  If you evenly distribute these commands and treats, I can almost guarantee you a long and loving relationship.