5 Skills Every Dog Should Know

5 Skills Every Dog Should Know

Training isn’t just about teaching commands—it’s about building trust, improving communication, and developing a strong relationship between you and your dog. If you're struggling with your dog's behaviour, it's likely that you aren't providing your dog with enough structure in their day to day life and/or your relationship is lacking. Here’s a breakdown of five essential skills every dog should learn, along with specific homework to help solidify these skills.

1. Loose Leash Walking

A dog that pulls on the leash can turn an enjoyable walk into a frustrating one. Loose leash walking ensures your dog stays focused and in control, especially in busy areas.

Homework: Loose Leash Walking

• Goal: Teach your dog that pulling on the leash gets them nowhere, while walking nicely beside you brings rewards.
• When your dog pulls, stop immediately. Only resume walking when the leash is loose again.
• Call your dog back to you and reward them when they return.
• Reward any “heel” position your dog offers by walking close to your side. Reinforce this regularly so they understand where the rewards come from.
• When passing distractions, keep your dog close and reward them frequently for focusing on you instead of the environment.
• Avoid on-leash greetings, ensuring walks are about bonding with you and maintaining control.

2. Reliable Recall

A solid recall is essential for keeping your dog safe, whether you’re in a park, backyard, or open field. Being able to call your dog back reliably is a crucial skill in many situations.

Homework: Recall

• Goal: Build a reliable recall by starting in low-distraction environments and gradually increasing the challenge.
• Use a long line so you have control without your dog being able to run off.
• Begin by practicing in calm areas, calling your dog’s name when they become distracted.
• When they turn toward you, immediately praise them and reward their approach.
• Make returning to you the most exciting part of the environment to ensure your dog is motivated.
• Gradually add more distractions as your dog becomes confident in their recall, increasing difficulty as they succeed.

3. Crate Training and the Place Command

Crate training provides a structured, safe space for your dog, promoting calm behaviour and reducing anxiety. Pairing this with the place command teaches your dog to settle in specific locations when needed.

Homework: Crate Training & Place Command

• Goal: Help your dog feel comfortable in the crate and learn to stay in a designated place on command.
• Make the crate or bed a positive place by rewarding your dog for going inside or onto the bed.
• Gradually increase the time your dog spends there, praising them for calm behaviour.
• Start small with the place command by rewarding your dog for standing on the bed. Then, extend the time they stay there and increase the distance between you.
• The goal is for your dog to stay in their designated place even when distractions, like guests or food, are present.

4. Impulse Control with the Out Command

Dogs often act on impulse, whether it’s grabbing objects or lunging toward distractions. Teaching impulse control through commands like “out” or “leave it” can help manage these behaviours and prevent unwanted situations.

Homework: Impulse Control & Out Command

• Goal: Reinforce impulse control by teaching your dog to drop or release items on command and resist acting on instinct.
• Use high-value items (like toys or food) to teach the "out" or "leave it" command. Offer the item to your dog and then ask for it back.
• As soon as your dog releases the object, reward them immediately.
• Practice regularly with different items, ensuring your dog learns to respond to the command regardless of the object’s value.
• Pair this with general impulse control exercises like waiting at doors or staying calm before interacting with other dogs or people.

5. Play!

Playtime is an excellent opportunity for bonding, reinforcing training, and providing mental stimulation. Structured play teaches your dog to focus, follow commands, and engage with you in a positive way.

Homework: Play

• Goal: Teach your dog structured play by engaging them with toys in a way that reinforces positive behaviours.
• Use a special toy reserved only for play sessions with you. This keeps the toy exciting and helps focus your dog’s attention.
• Engage your dog by making the toy interactive and rewarding them for playing with it appropriately.
• Use playtime as a chance to reinforce other commands, like “drop it,” “stay,” or “come,” making the session both fun and productive.

Why These Skills Matter
These foundational skills not only make your dog more obedient but also improve your communication and strengthen your bond. Whether navigating busy streets, training off-leash, or enjoying time at home, these skills equip you and your dog to handle everyday situations with confidence.

By focusing on these key areas and practicing with the provided homework, you’ll create a balanced, well-rounded dog who is a joy to live with and take anywhere!