We know how hard may be to train your dog – you have to pick a training method, research trainers, and learn! How do you choose a trainer? Well, this can be tricky, as everyone can have a slightly different training methodology. For example, we started with one trainer when Natsuki was 6 months old, but we decided that we do not like his ways of working with us and the dog, so we searched for another!
Currently, we are very content with everything we are learning and how far Natsuki has come! We know that there is still a long way to go, but we have to celebrate each small victory!
So, how to make things a bit easier? Here are our tips!
- Always start the outdoor training session after the dog has finished its business! Basic needs should be met first. Allow them to sniff around, play, and walk. Then comes training time. After that, you may play again!
- Try to make time for training – even 5 min of concentrated work on each walk can have an impact! Be consistent!
- Always train your dog when YOU are calm! If you rush, get nervous, panic – nothing is going to happen! Dogs like stable and collected people!
- Do not force your dog – sometimes they may be tired, and it may be too hot/cold/windy… if you and the dog won’t feel like it, better skip training.
- Find what motivates your dog – is it food or toys maybe? Everyone likes high-value prizes for their work!
- Try using a training leash – usually around 5m. long – great for outdoor training when you do not let your dog off-leash. We also use one for Natsuki!
- Listen to your trainer and do not mix training methods.
- Always be aware of your surroundings and be safe.
- Enjoy the company of your dog and have fun together! Learn what tricks and commands your dog likes more than others – do them between ones that are harder so that you keep the motivation high.
- Find people who also train their dogs – better if you have the same trainer – and train together! Even if your trainer has group training sessions, you can still benefit and maybe make new friends in the process!
We are not experts in dog behavior or trainers – we are sharing everything from our own experience. We know the struggles! You may find it difficult in the beginning, but believe me, everything is worth it! Training is not just “tricks”, it is learning to communicate with your dog, helping them navigate our world easier and understanding each other better! Training enriches your dog’s world and gives them purpose and a sense of belonging. Be consistent and results will start showing! And most importantly, enjoy every step of the process and have fun!