Start where your dog can learn

When teaching a new behaviour, start in an environment with few distractions. If your dog is learning “Sit”, a busy park is usually not the easiest place to begin.

Teach the behaviour where your dog can focus, then gradually increase the difficulty. Training is not only about repeating a cue; it is about helping the dog respond in different situations.

What does your dog get from the behaviour?

For a dog to repeat a behaviour, there needs to be a consequence that makes it worthwhile.

Food, toys, access to something they want, freedom to explore or continuing an activity can all be rewards.

Reward at the right moment

Timing is one of the most important parts of training. The reward should follow the behaviour quickly so the dog can understand what earned it.

A short marker such as “Good!” can help bridge the behaviour and the reward.

Do not wait for a cue to reward

We do not need to give commands all day. If your dog settles calmly, looks at you on a walk or chooses not to jump on someone, those are opportunities to reinforce.

The more opportunities a dog has to get it right, the more useful behaviours we can build.

Make training part of real life

After learning a behaviour in a quiet environment, practise it around real-life distractions.

Short moments during meals, walks, play, visitors and everyday routines can all become training opportunities.