How long and how often do I train my dog?
We are asked this question all the time. All. The. Time. And it’s okay! Because we say…play with your dog all the time! Unless you don’t want to, then have them relax and rest and wait for the next time.
Honestly, we LOVE games based training because you can play throughout the day, with no pressure of time. Focus on the fun with your dog, not the length of time.
A simple 2-3 minutes a couple times a day is all you need to have fun with your dog and help shape their brain. You do not need the hour long training sessions of repetition that are boring and lead to frustration.
Waiting for your coffee to brew?
Play a game!
TV Commercial on during your favorite show?
Play a game!
Unpacking your groceries?
Play a game!
That’s it! Just a few minutes every day will lead to transformation. Once you learn more games and your knowledge and confidence grow, you can put games together but you still only need 3 minutes each!
If you are new to games, you may want to create a schedule for yourself so that you remember to play a few each day. It’s easy to forget when we’re learning something new. If your dog is chaotic around meal time, it’s a great idea to play a few games before they get their food. This way you are fulfilling a lot of their needs - work, fun/play and food!
We highly recommend ditching the bowl and using your dogs equivalent food allowance as rewards throughout the day in games. It’s also a great way to help slow down those fast, gobbling eaters or for big dogs who need a lot of food but probably shouldn’t be eating it all at once to avoid serious health issues like twisted stomachs as well as other digestive problems.
We’re building our database of games so keep checking back for more. Pick a concept you want to work on, pick a game and have fun!
“Training” your dog is really about building a long-lasting relationship with your dog. Focus on the fun, not the time!
Visit the Casa Luna Canines semi-private, group dog training web page for information about Doggie Decorum where you can learn more (in person) about appropriate training time and frequency for your dog.
