Dog Training as Part of Daily Life

One of my instructors often said "everyone wants a trained dog, but not everyone will do the work". Everyone is busy, and a dog's education isn't usually very high on an owner's priority list. I get it. But improving a dog's obedience doesn't have to be a huge time commitment. In fact, I challenge owners to blend training into daily routines. A minute here, another 2 minutes there (and so on - every day) can provide tremendous benefits. Making training part of daily life is the key. Here are a few tips that can help that process...

First, owners are best served understanding that dog's need more in life than play and recreation to be happy. While I'm NOT advocating a life absent those things, there's nothing at all wrong with having your dog work at times. Training is challenging, but progress is rewarding - for both owner AND dog. Never underestimate the benefits that mental challenges and learning provide! Training develops communication, respect, a sense of accomplishment, mental acuity and focus. Why not transition some play time to work time? It's helpful and adds no additional drain to an owner's schedule.

Second, owners must realize that dogs are always learning. But sometimes dogs may be learning things that are counter-productive. One lifestyle change that can benefit every owner, is being certain to follow through on every command. Every failure to do so sends the message that obedience is optional. Not a very good plan if success and reliability is the goal. Consistent follow through requires focus on details, but isn't terribly time consuming.

Finally, owners often need help identifying, and working on, weak and priority areas. Humans (and dogs) like routines. But thoughtful changes to comfortable routines (at well timed points) can be key to moving things forward efficiently. All dogs are unique individuals. As they learn, they will excel at some things and have problems with others. A good trainer should be challenging not just a dog, but challenging owners to make the most of their time. Repeating only things a dog is good at isn't going to move anything forward. Use the time you spend to gain more!

If you aren't practicing training skills and communication daily, there's room for improvement. Dog training should be just like exercising, studying, practicing a sport, playing an instrument, etc. The more you routinely use and practice something, the better you get at it, and the less time it takes to maintain proficiency. This is true for your dog's obedience as well.