How much time do you spend a week training your dog? Ever wonder if it’s enough? Don't worry – I'm not about to tell you that you need to spend hours each day with a clicker and a treat pouch (though if you do, more power to you!). Instead, let's chat about how training is woven into every moment you spend with your furry friend.
The Myth of the Weekly Training Session
If you attend weekly dog training classes, that's brilliant! That hour is invaluable for learning new skills, getting feedback and practising in a controlled environment. But the thing is, your dog doesn't stop learning when class ends.
Every interaction, every reaction, every little moment throughout the day is teaching your dog something. Sometimes it's exactly what you want them to learn, and sometimes ... well, not so much.
Accidental Training: The Good, the Bad, and the Downright Silly
Let me share a little story. When our eldest dog was a puppy, my husband was baffled as to why the pup wouldn't go outside when called. Turns out, he'd accidentally trained him to sit on the doormat instead of going into the garden. How? By rewarding him for coming to the door, rather than for actually going outside.
It's these little moments that shape our dogs' behaviour. They're constantly learning from us, even when we don't realise we're teaching. Does your dog sit in the kitchen at dinner time? You've taught them that routine. Do they grab your socks and run into the garden? They might have learned that this is a great way to start a game of chase with you.
Every Minute Counts
So, if our dogs are learning all the time, does that mean we need to be in 'training mode' 24/7? Not exactly. But it does mean we need to be conscious of our reactions and the habits we're inadvertently creating.
For instance, I've trained my retrievers to bring items to me rather than running off with them. Not by chasing them down every time they pick something up, but by remaining calm and making it rewarding for them to share their 'treasure' with me.
When Good Intentions Go Awry
Sometimes, even with the best intentions, we can create habits we don't want. During lockdown, I accidentally taught one of my dogs to bark when I'm on professional calls. How? By occasionally tossing treats to keep him quiet during Zoom classes. Now, four years later, I'm still working on undoing that habit!
The lesson here? Be mindful of your reactions. Sometimes, what seems like a quick fix can turn into a long-term problem.
Consistency is Key
Now, I'm not saying you need to turn every walk into a training session. But consistency in key areas – like loose lead walking and recall – is crucial. If you learn a new skill in class on Saturday, try to practice it a few times during the week. Even short, focused sessions can make a world of difference.
Embracing the Journey
Training isn't just about teaching cues - it's about building a relationship with your dog. It's about understanding each other better and creating a happy, harmonious life together.
So, the next time you're interacting with your furry friend, take a moment to consider: What am I teaching right now? Am I reinforcing a behaviour I want to see more of? Or am I accidentally encouraging something I'd rather not?
We all make mistakes – I’ve told you a few of mine! The key is to recognise them, learn from them and keep moving forward. After all, that's what our dogs do every day.
If you’ve got questions or could use some extra tips on your dog training journey, join our Facebook group,
Potter Paws Community, where fellow dog owners like you share their experiences and support each other. We're a friendly bunch and always happy to help!
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