The 2024 5-day Kickstart
If you're feeling like your dog's training and your overall lifestyle with them has fallen off track, don't worry - it happens to the best of us! The good news is that it's never too late to get back into a routine and start making progress again. Whether it's taking your dog for a daily structured walk, practicing obedience commands with mindset in mind, or introducing new impulse control practice, there are plenty of ways to get back on track. By committing to a routine and setting achievable goals, you'll be amazed at how quickly you and your dog can get back into a happy and healthy lifestyle. So don't be afraid to hit the reset button and give yourself & your dog the attention and care deserved & needed to be successful! Let’s jump in!
Back to Basics
Having worked with hundreds of dogs, I can confidently say that committing to the basics is crucial. If you want to strengthen your bond with your dog and make your time together more enjoyable, there is no substitute for the fundamental basics. Even if your dog is generally well-behaved, using the leash to reinforce commands, maintain control, and provide clarity is important. So, if your dog’s training is getting “sloppy,” it's time to step up and commit to the basics & that includes using that leash!
Impulse Control
It's always a good idea to practice real-life situations with your dog before they even happen. This can help prepare both you and your dog for the unexpected, while also giving you a chance to have some fun together. One great way to do this is through impulse control activities. These can help your dog learn to resist temptation and stay calm in a variety of situations. By practicing these activities regularly, you'll be better equipped to handle anything that might come your way. So, whether you're working on loose leash walking, ignoring distractions, or just practicing basic obedience commands, remember that the more you practice, the more prepared you and your dog will be for the real world.
Walk It Out
Walking your dog is not just about giving them exercise and fresh air. It is also an opportunity to teach your dog how to take your lead & slow their mind down. Taking the time to walk your dog with intention and patience can help strengthen the bond between you two. As a bonus, it will also improve your physical and mental well-being. Win-win!
Long Line Work
I cannot stress enough the importance of investing time and effort into teaching your dog solid recall skills. Recall training is a vital tool that ensures your dog's safety in potentially hazardous situations and helps to forge a deeper, more meaningful bond between you and your best bud. However, it's imperative to note that recall training is not a one-and-done process, but rather a relationship-based journey that requires patience, dedication, and consistency to achieve reliability. Have fun with this!
Lifestyle Day
I've found that incorporating dogs into my daily lifestyle has been incredibly rewarding for both of us. Dogs crave routine and guidance, so providing them with structure and clarity can really help them thrive. Make sure to establish clear boundaries and expectations for your dog, so they know what's expected of them. Having a “default day” also helps you realistically fulfill your dog, while also taking care of yourself!
I know this says a “5-day kickstart,” but I encourage you to make many of these practices a part of your lifestyle with your dog! Dogs are creatures of habit and thrive on routine and structure. They feel more secure and relaxed when they have a predictable daily routine. A structured lifestyle can help them maintain a healthy nervous system and state of mind. A routine that includes regular exercise, playtime, downtime, and rest can keep them physically and mentally healthy. It helps to reduce their stress levels and prevent behavior problems. It’s also so much more peaceful for you once it becomes the norm! As always, I hope this was helpful & here’s to a great start to 2024 for you & your dog!!