Training Your Dog Outside of Formal Training Sessions

KPA faculty member Juliana DeWillems recommends the following tips for integrating this method into your daily routine:

Keep Treats Handy: At the start of the day, place a handful of treats in an easy-to-reach jar. With treats at the ready, you can quickly reward your dog for desirable behavior.

Observe and Reward: Keep an eye out for your dog’s good behavior. In this video, a 15-week-old puppy is reinforced for choosing to settle on a mat. Whether it’s settling in a designated spot, coming when called, or walking on a leash calmly, slip your dog a treat for behavior you like and want to see more of.

Try the SMARTX50 Technique: Developed by dog trainer Kathy Sdao, this technique encourages you to capture small moments of desired behavior throughout the day and reinforce those moments with a treat. Aim for 50 positive interactions daily to build a strong foundation of good habits.

Dogs of any age can learn and benefit from this approach. When you integrate positive reinforcement into your daily routine, you create an environment that not only shapes your dog’s behavior but also strengthens the bond between you and your furry companion.

If you want to enhance your understanding of modern, effective, positive dog training, build a stronger bond with your dog, or take the next step toward a fulfilling career as a dog trainer, our Dog Trainer courses will support you every step of the way.

Happy Training!