5 Dog Training Exercises You Should Do EVERY DAY At Home!

Introduction

Training your dog daily is essential for fostering a strong, respectful relationship between you and your canine companion. This tutorial outlines five effective dog training exercises that you can easily incorporate into your daily routine at home. These exercises will help establish rules and boundaries, ensuring your dog becomes the well-behaved companion you desire.

Step 1: Establish Basic Commands

Start with fundamental commands to create a solid foundation for your dog's training.

• Sit

  • Hold a treat above your dog's nose and slowly move it back over their head.
  • As their head follows the treat, their bottom should lower to the ground.
  • Once they sit, reward them with the treat and praise.

• Stay

  • With your dog in a sitting position, hold your hand up like a stop sign and say "stay."
  • Take a step back. If they stay in place, return and reward them.
  • Gradually increase the distance and duration.

Step 2: Practice Recall

Teach your dog to come when called, which is crucial for their safety.

• Start in a quiet area with minimal distractions.
• Use a long leash if necessary. Call your dog’s name followed by "come."
• When they approach you, reward them with treats and enthusiasm.
• Repeat this exercise, gradually increasing the distance.

Step 3: Leash Walking

Improve your dog's behavior on walks, making them enjoyable for both of you.

• Use a front-clip harness to discourage pulling.
• Begin walking and keep the leash loose. If your dog pulls, stop walking.
• Once they return to your side, praise and continue walking.
• Repeat the process, encouraging them to stay beside you.

Step 4: Focus and Attention

Help your dog learn to focus on you, which is vital for effective training.

• Hold a treat in front of your dog's nose.
• Move the treat to the side and encourage them to follow it with their eyes.
• Once they are focused on you, reward them.
• Practice this in various environments to reinforce their attention.

Step 5: Socialization Skills

Expose your dog to different people, pets, and environments to enhance their social skills.

• Arrange playdates with other vaccinated dogs.
• Take your dog to different locations, like parks or pet-friendly stores.
• Monitor their reactions and provide positive reinforcement for calm behavior.

Conclusion

Incorporating these five daily exercises into your routine will strengthen your bond with your dog while promoting good behavior. Consistency is key, so aim to practice these exercises every day. As your dog masters these skills, consider exploring more advanced training techniques to further enhance their abilities and your relationship. Happy training!