Dogs have been a part of human society for at least the last 30,000 years, earning their place as the world’s oldest domesticated species. For those of us that live with dogs, it is evident that their presence makes even the hardest days a little bit brighter. Yet, despite their deep connection to us, many of us don’t fully understand how to communicate with our dogs. Training provides a unique opportunity to bridge that gap. By creating a shared language, training helps us connect with our dogs on a deeper level, opening lines of communication that build trust and mutual understanding. Research shows that domesticated dogs look to humans for guidance and problem-solving in ways their wild counterparts do not. Doesn’t that make it our responsibility to better understand their needs, emotions, and communication? Using positive reinforcement training not only strengthens the bond between you and your dog but also helps them navigate the complexities of modern life.
Start Simple, Stay Consistent
Not sure where to start? There are many things you can do at home without the help of a professional trainer. Starting with what’s doable for you and your schedule will help set you up for success.
A great method to try is “SMART x50” (See, Mark, And Reward Training), created by renowned dog trainer, Kathy Sdao. The concept is simple: reward your dog for good choices they make throughout the day, even without formal training sessions. Work SMARTer, not harder! You don’t even need to worry about actively training skills and cues for this one.
See your dog go settle in their bed with a bone instead of pestering the cat? Reward that!
Your dog sits in front of you waiting to be petted instead of jumping up and down? Reward that too!
Every time you acknowledge and reward good behavior, you encourage your dog to repeat it. Start your day with a small pile of 50 treats (or fewer, if that feels more achievable) and aim to use them up by the day’s end. You’ll soon notice just how many good choices your dog makes naturally throughout the day.
A few Helpful Tips
Be Prepared: Keep small treat containers in key areas of your home for easy access.
Mark the Moment: Use a consistent word like “yes!” to pinpoint exactly what behavior earned the treat. This helps your dog connect their action to the reward.
Start Small: If 50 treats sound daunting, begin with 10–20 and work your way up.
Even with a busy schedule, rewarding 15–20 behaviors in the morning and evening will be manageable and impactful. Positive reinforcement is a rewarding experience for both you and your dog—and it’s a great way to build a bond based on trust and understanding.
Join Us for Train Your Dog Month!
January is National Train Your Dog Month, and we’re excited to share tips and videos on our social media all month long! Tune in to learn about more easy training activities to deepen your connection with your furry friend. Here’s to a 2024 filled with trust, teamwork, and plenty of tail-wagging successes!
-Aliah Clever, Team Training Manager
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