Raising a Well-adjusted dog is far more than a Series of Repetitive and ‘Separate’ Training Sessions
When we think about dog training, it’s easy to picture structured sessions—a set time each day or week to teach commands like “sit,” “stay,” or “heel.” While those focused moments have their place, the reality is that training your dog goes far beyond the boundaries of scheduled activities. It’s a continuous process happening every moment you interact with your dog, and understanding this is crucial for building a well-rounded, happy, and healthy relationship.
Training Is a Lifestyle
Training isn’t something you do; it’s something you live. Just like parenting, it’s about forming a relationship built on trust, mutual respect, and clear communication. Dogs are always learning, whether you’re intentionally teaching them or not. Every interaction contributes to shaping their behaviour and their understanding of the world.
For example, if you consistently fail to hold them accountable for the little things, like coming into the kitchen or going to their bed when asked (even if you don’t really mind about those things), you are teaching them that you don’t mean what you say and that there are no consequences for crossing boundaries.
‘Why can I ignore you about going to my bed but then you suddenly think I’ll listen when you don’t want me to jump on your guests?’
This subtle, ongoing reinforcement happens not just in “sessions” but in every moment you’re together.
Be believable and earn the right to be followed.
Beyond Commands: Teaching Life Skills
While commands like “sit” and “down” are valuable, they’re only part of the equation. Life skills such as patience, manners, and self-control are the foundation of a well-trained dog. These skills enable your dog to navigate the world safely and comfortably, making life more enjoyable for both of you.
Trying to control your dog by focusing on mechanical actions will give you limited results and doesn’t really address the underlying issue. Telling them to sit when they are jumping on you is like telling your kids to jump on one leg when they’re interrupting you. Sure it might distract them momentarily but not much else.
Here are some examples of more useful exercises to incorporate into your day to day life (when asked):
- going to a bed or mat and staying there calmly until released
- being calm around guests
- waiting politely for permission to come inside or be invited up on furniture
- coming to their name whether at home or out
- respecting personal space – no jumping on, pawing, licking, shoving or nipping
- not demanding attention or food
- walking calmly by your side on lead
- ignoring distractions
- respecting boundaries in the home eg staying out of the kitchen or bedrooms
- self soothing and being independent of you when you’re busy
These skills are developed through consistent reinforcement throughout your everyday, shared experiences.
Who are you to your dog?
Dogs are natural followers, and they look for a leader who is self assured and clear about what they want. Becoming someone your dog wants to follow requires self-awareness and growth on your part. Your emotions, energy, and behaviour influence how your dog perceives you.
If you’re stressed, inconsistent or always trying to please your dog, they will perceive your behaviour as confusing and weak. Conversely, if you’re assertive, consistent and calm, your dog will naturally gravitate toward you and be more willing to focus and cooperate. The qualities of good leaders are universal.
Why Training and Lifestyle Shouldn’t Be Separate
Separating training from daily life creates a disjointed experience for your dog. They’re less likely to generalize behaviors learned in a specific context to real-world situations. For example, a dog might “sit” perfectly in the quiet of your living room during a training session but struggle to do so at a bustling park.
Your dog also doesn’t understand why they’re allowed to follow you everywhere at home without boundaries but then expected to tolerate being tied up and left alone outside a café. If they’re constantly involved in everything you do at home, always receiving your attention, they may struggle when you’re not there. This reliance on your presence stems from not being taught to self-soothe or amuse themselves. To foster independence, it’s important to create moments where your dog can learn to be content on their own while you’re nearby but not actively engaging with them. In other words, practise being not home even when you are.
When training becomes part of your lifestyle, your dog learns to apply their skills in various contexts. Practicing patience at the door before a walk, reinforcing good manners during mealtimes or insisting on calm behaviour in the car all contribute to their overall development. These moments are more impactful than any isolated training session because they reflect real-life scenarios.
Healthy Relationships
By embracing training as a continuous process, you’re not just teaching your dog to follow commands; you’re fostering a relationship based on trust, respect, and mutual understanding. Your dog learns to see you as a dependable leader, and you gain a loyal companion who thrives in your shared world.
Remember, every moment matters. Whether you’re playing, walking, or simply relaxing together, you’re shaping your dog’s behaviour and deepening your bond. By living the principles of good leadership and training, you create a harmonious partnership that enriches both your lives.
