Keep training sessions short and sweet. Stop training BEFORE your dog gets tired or overtaxed. You want to keep your dog interested and wanting more!
Try to limit your training to short sessions of 5 –20 minutes depending on the age of the dog. When training a new behavior, keep sessions even shorter, so that you are able to evaluate your training plan and decide if it is correct before continuing. Make any adjustments to the plan and then train another short session. Only when you feel confident that you are on the right track should you add time or additional skills to the next session.
The time spent in a training session should reflect some positive result. As soon as you see some level of success, reward your dog. Don’t continue on and on with the skill or exercise, because your dog will become bored. Training sessions are most successful in multiple short sessions throughout the day, as opposed to one long session. Break down what you want to teach your dog, and work on each skill for a few minutes throughout your day. Take advantage of anytime you are with your dog and throw a command in when going outside or before your dog’s meals. You really are training your dog 24/7 whether you know it or not, so take advantage of the time!
“Quality not quantity” is the key phrase to remember. The length of a training session is determined by how long the dog is able to work with focus and enthusiasm. Even if the dog is able to work for long periods of time, it is necessary for you to frequently stop and evaluate your training. No matter what you are trying to accomplish, try to end on a good note. Keeping training session’s fun will keep your dog focused and looking forward to your next session.
Come back for PART 3 !!!!
Here are a few really great “dog” items I use in everyday life and in training. Click on the link or image and it will take you to affiliate Amazon.
DebbyQ’s Picks
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