- March 18, 2019
- Posted by: optimaadmin
- Category: Coaching The Handler
Over the years of training dogs in their homes and small group classes I have seen some amazing transformations. I have seen a dog who started out acting like a wild animal without a clue of how to behave in a home change into a calm, well-behaved family member. I have also seen a dog with the potential of going all the way to be a certified Canine Good Citizen barely master potty training. What makes the difference in one dog achieving so much and the other so little? Some people think it’s the breed, the temperament of the dog or that it will just magically happen somehow.
Actually, it’s all about the amount of consistent time the dog owner gives towards training and developing the dog’s potential. Can it be that simple? Yes, it can and yes, it is. I know that we each only have 24 hours in our day, and we have at least 30 hours of work and To Do’s. So how can one find enough time consistently training their dog? The first thing you need to know is IT’S NOT MAGIC. The second thing you need to know is that it only takes 3-5 minutes, a couple times a day. That’s so doable!
Here are my 7 tips to help you be the best dog trainer ever:
- Write it on your calendar – just a quick note of what you will do.
- Be creative!
a. Teach a new trick like play dead, roll over, shake.
b. Review a skill like Down, Stay, Come.
c. Put on the flexi leash and go for a 5 minute fun walk. - Start training a new skill.
a. Fetch a ball or frisbee disc.
b. Go into their crate for quiet time (a Kong with peanut butter in it is a great way to help them enjoy their time).
c. Get into the crate in the car (aka a dog’s seat belt) and drive around the block or run to the store to get a few things. - Put your phone down. Be present, just like you do with your spouse and/or child. It’s only 3-5 minutes!
- Focus on what you are doing so the 3-5 minutes really do make a difference.
- Stay positive. Your dog needs positive reinforcement (small treats, good pets and positive words) plus positive energy from you. This will go a long way to making it a win win experience for both of you.
- Take a class together. Dog training is a learned skill. One you can master with just a little bit of effort and time.
OK, so you are fired up and ready to start. How do you learn what to do in order to be a good dog trainer? Many of my clients start with In-Home Training for a few reasons. The owner is able to have me train where the dog lives so he/she will be more comfortable. With more familiar surroundings the dog is able to embrace changes consistently by focusing on the task at hand. The other reason why In-Home Training is a great place to start is because it is customized to addressing the immediate challenges. After you complete In Home Training it’s a good idea to move into small group classes. These classes provide new challenges like being around other dogs while focusing on learning. Whatever method you chose, I recommend you select a trusted training method that you are comfortable with and is proven to work.
I have seen many, many clients who “get it” and after a few months reach back to tell me they are rolling in compliments from their friends and family for having such a well-trained dog. That’s what I hope for you!
Cheers,
Julie
PHOTOS
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