Any professional dog trainer would advise that incorporating basic training exercises such as sit, stay, down, and come into a dog’s and dog owner’s everyday routine will help establish and maintain the proper relationship between the dog and dog owner. Neglecting these day-to-day opportunities is even considered to be a missed animal training lesson. Here are some examples of how owners can incorporate training into their everyday routine.
1. Have your dog sit and stay while you place his/her food bowl down. Once you say "okay," your dog can eat the food.
2. Have your dog lie down and stay at the doorway before saying "okay" to invite the dog inside.
3. Instead of going up to your dog and petting him/her, call him to you when he least expects it and then reward him with praise and/or a treat.
Every day is a chance to improve your teaching skills and your dog’s level of obedience! As every trainer knows, practice makes perfect. The relationship between the trainer and animal makes a world of difference, as do daily habits. Owners that incorporate routines with their dogs feel they make a noticeable difference. You don’t have to be a dog trainer to create a positive relationship of understanding between you and your canine companion.
