Tips & Tricks

Teach heeling as a basic obedience skill that keeps your dog walking close beside you while staying attentive during walks. Use consistent footwork and hand signals; this teaches your dog to ‘read’ your gesture and pay attention.

Housebreaking is teaching your dog where the toilet is. Choose one designated toilet spot in your yard and bring your dog there on leash at regular intervals. Stay calm and avoid play during toilet trips so your dog understands the purpose of the visit.

Try nosework games by hiding scented items in boxes and letting your dog search for them. Begin by placing the scent in an easy location so your dog can find it quickly and build confidence, then gradually increase the challenge by adding more hiding spots or boxes.

Make the daily exam a regular part of your dog’s routine. Put your dog on their back between your legs to help them stay comfortable. This exercise helps build your dog’s trust in you, makes it easier to check for signs of health concerns, and prepares your dog to stay calm during grooming and handling.

Listen when your dog communicates through posture, movement, or behavior, because they may be trying to tell you something important. Learning to read your dog’s signals helps you respond better and strengthens the partnership between you and your dog.

Dogs don’t sweat much, so train your dog in shaded areas and focus on simple exercises like sit and down to help them stay attentive without overexerting in the heat.

Use the same words and physical signals every time you give a command. Be patient with repetition since learning takes time, and praise your dog immediately when they respond correctly. When you become a better teacher, your dog will learn faster.