Are you wondering how to improve your dog’s behavior or teach them new skills? January is National Train Your Dog Month, making it the perfect time to focus on positive training methods and build better habits. Whether you’re starting with a new puppy or helping a rescue settle in, proper training can strengthen your bond and create a happier, more well-behaved pet. In this guide, we’ll cover helpful tips and resources to make training fun and effective.
What Is National Train Your Dog Month?
National Train Your Dog Month happens every January and focuses on the importance of training and socializing dogs. It was started in 2010 by the Association of Professional Dog Trainers (APDT), and the goal is to highlight the benefits of positive reinforcement training and help pet owners build better relationships with their dogs. The month is all about making training simple, fun, and accessible for everyone, even if you’re just getting started.
Start with the Basics
Training your dog starts with building a strong foundation of good habits and clear communication. Whether you’re working with a puppy or an older dog, focusing on the basics sets the stage for success.
Keep Them Active
Exercise is one of the easiest ways to prevent behavior problems. Dogs with too much energy often act out by chewing, barking, or jumping. Daily walks and playtime help release pent-up energy and keep your dog calm and focused. If you’re in Greensboro, Country Park is a great spot to give your dog exercise while reinforcing leash manners.
Teach Basic Commands
Start with simple commands that improve safety and make daily interactions easier:
Come When Called: Begin in a quiet space with treats or toys as rewards. Use a happy tone when calling your dog and reward them immediately when they come. Gradually add distractions as they improve.
No Jumping: Ignore your dog when they jump, turning away and only giving attention when all four paws are on the ground. Reward calm behavior with praise or treats to reinforce good habits.
Set House Rules
Dogs thrive on consistency, so it’s important to set clear rules early and stick to them.
Decide What’s Allowed: Will your dog be allowed on the furniture? Are certain rooms off-limits? Make these decisions early to avoid confusion.
Stay Consistent: Everyone in the household should follow the same rules and use the same commands. Mixed signals can make training harder and frustrate your dog.
Training Adopted Dogs
What if you recently adopted a dog who’s not adapting well? It’s completely normal for adopted dogs to need extra time and patience as they settle into a new home. Building trust and establishing a consistent routine can make a big difference in helping them feel secure and ready to learn. Here are a few tips to get started:
Give Them Time to Adjust: Let them explore their new space at their own pace.
Focus on Bonding First: Build trust through play, treats, and gentle interactions.
Stick to a Routine: Set regular times for meals, walks, and training.
Use Positive Reinforcement: Reward good behavior with treats and praise.
Get Professional Help if Needed: Local trainers like Carolina Dog Training Club can provide extra support.
Resources for Additional Help
Training your dog can feel overwhelming at times, but there are plenty of resources to make the process easier and more effective. Whether you prefer in-person classes, online programs, or listening to training tips on the go, here are some options I’ve found helpful:
Local Dog Training Classes: If you’re in the Greensboro area, there are some great local training programs to consider. I’ve personally used Carolina Dog Training Club for both my dogs, Mac and Goose, and had excellent results. They offer group classes that focus on positive reinforcement techniques. I’ve also heard great things about Red Beard Dog Training, which offers group sessions, day training, and even “board and train” programs for more focused learning.
Online Training Programs: If you prefer training from home or need more flexibility, online programs are a great option. I had good success with Playtime Paws when Mac was a puppy. Their virtual training programs are easy to follow and designed to help you build positive habits with your dog.
Dog Training Podcasts: Podcasts are a great way to pick up training tips, whether you’re driving or out walking your dog. One I recommend is the No Bad Dogs Podcast, hosted by professional dog trainer Tom Davis. It’s packed with practical advice on handling common behavior issues and building better communication with your dog.
Make Training Fun
Training doesn’t have to feel like work for you or your dog. Adding games and play into your routine keeps sessions exciting and helps your dog stay engaged. Try games like hide-and-seek to reinforce commands like “stay” and “come,” or play fetch to practice “drop it” and “leave it.” Short, positive sessions with plenty of praise and treats will keep your dog motivated and make learning enjoyable for both of you.
Final Thoughts
As you can see, January is the perfect time to focus on training and building a stronger bond with your dog. Whether you’re teaching basic commands, working with an adopted dog, or simply brushing up on manners, a little time and consistency can make a big difference. With the right tools, resources, and a positive mindset, training can be both effective and fun for you and your dog.
If you’re in Greensboro and need help keeping your dog active and happy, Top Tails of Greensboro offers professional dog walking and pet-sitting services. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can help keep your pet happy and cared for!
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