Top 10 Dog Training Tips

Training works best when your dog wants to join in. Try these ten ways to practise everyday skills with a puppy, a rescue dog or an old hand learning a new cue.

1. Find out what your dog enjoys. Try a small food reward, a brief game or a chance to sniff. What works can change with the setting.
2. Start somewhere quiet. Practise a new cue at home before asking for it around people, traffic or other dogs.
3. Pick one small goal. Reward a step towards the behaviour you want. For a settle, start by rewarding your dog for choosing to stand or lie on the mat.
4. Mark the moment. Say a consistent word such as “yes” when your dog gets it right, then reward promptly.
5. Make food rewards small. A few little pieces of their usual food or Pet Munchies salmon training treats can keep practice moving. Count extras as part of what your dog eats that day.
6. Use play if your dog chooses it. A short game with a favourite toy can reward a recall or a check-in. Try a few sniffing, tug and fetch games to see what your dog comes back for.
7. Keep it short. Finish after a handful of successful attempts while your dog still wants to take part.
8. Say the cue once. If your dog is distracted or unsure, make the next attempt easier by reducing distance or moving somewhere quieter.
9. Help the whole household be consistent. Agree on the cue and what earns a reward so your dog gets the same feedback from everyone.
10. Make time for breaks. If your dog starts to disengage, let them sniff, rest or have a drink. Try again later with an easier step.

For more examples of timing and choosing rewards, see Dogs Trust’s reward-based training guide.