Walking and Training: How to Incorporate Basic Commands into Your Daily Strolls
29/06/2023 - Dog Blog
Walking your furry friend is not only a great way to keep them physically fit and mentally stimulated, but it also provides an excellent opportunity for training.
By incorporating basic commands into your daily strolls, you can enhance the bond between you and your canine companion while reinforcing good behavior.
In this post, we'll explore how to make the most of your walks by integrating training exercises seamlessly into your routine.
🐶 Start with the Basics: Sit, Stay, and Recall
When it comes to basic commands, "sit," "stay," and "recall" are fundamental and invaluable. Begin by reinforcing these commands in a controlled environment, such as your home or backyard. Once your dog is familiar with them, it's time to take the training on the road.
During your walks, make frequent stops and ask your dog to sit before continuing. This helps them understand that they should remain calm and attentive during walks. Practice the "stay" command by asking your furry friend to hold the position while you take a few steps away. Gradually increase the distance and duration as your dog becomes more proficient.
Recall training is essential for keeping your dog safe. Incorporate this into your walks by periodically calling your dog's name and rewarding them when they come to you promptly. This reinforces the idea that coming when called is always a positive experience.
🐶 Loose Leash Walking: Teach Polite Walking Manners
Walking on a loose leash is one of the most desirable skills to teach your dog. It promotes a pleasant walking experience for both of you and allows your dog to explore their surroundings without constant tension on the leash.
To achieve loose leash walking, use positive reinforcement techniques. Encourage your dog to walk beside you with treats, praise, or their favorite toy. Whenever they pull or tug on the leash, stop walking and wait for them to return to your side. As they learn that pulling doesn't get them where they want to go, they'll start to understand the benefits of walking politely.
🐶 Incorporate Obedience Drills for Mental Stimulation
In addition to physical exercise, dogs also need mental stimulation to stay happy and well-behaved. Walking presents an excellent opportunity to incorporate obedience drills that challenge your dog's mind.
For example, practice the "down" command during your walk. Ask your dog to lie down, reward them, and then continue walking. You can also add variations to the "heel" command, where your dog walks right beside you with their attention solely on you. These exercises keep your dog engaged and reinforce their training in different environments.
🐶 Introduce Distractions Gradually
As your dog becomes more proficient with basic commands during walks, it's important to introduce distractions gradually. Start with low-level distractions, such as other dogs or people at a distance, and reward your dog for maintaining focus on you and following commands. As they improve, gradually increase the level of distractions to further reinforce their training.
Incorporating basic commands into your daily strolls is a fantastic way to strengthen the bond between you and your furry friend while ensuring they remain well-behaved. Remember to keep training sessions short, positive, and enjoyable for your dog.
Consistency and patience are key.
With time and practice, your dog will become a well-trained companion who can confidently navigate the world alongside you. So, put on your walking shoes, grab the leash, and embark on an exciting journey of training and exploration with your canine companion!
🐾 Stay up to date with our latest and favorite training videos by following us on our social media platforms below
FACEBOOK PAGE or INSTAGRAM PAGE
Don't forget to leave us a comment and let us know which videos you like best :) 🐾
By incorporating basic commands into your daily strolls, you can enhance the bond between you and your canine companion while reinforcing good behavior.
In this post, we'll explore how to make the most of your walks by integrating training exercises seamlessly into your routine.
🐶 Start with the Basics: Sit, Stay, and Recall
When it comes to basic commands, "sit," "stay," and "recall" are fundamental and invaluable. Begin by reinforcing these commands in a controlled environment, such as your home or backyard. Once your dog is familiar with them, it's time to take the training on the road.
During your walks, make frequent stops and ask your dog to sit before continuing. This helps them understand that they should remain calm and attentive during walks. Practice the "stay" command by asking your furry friend to hold the position while you take a few steps away. Gradually increase the distance and duration as your dog becomes more proficient.
Recall training is essential for keeping your dog safe. Incorporate this into your walks by periodically calling your dog's name and rewarding them when they come to you promptly. This reinforces the idea that coming when called is always a positive experience.
🐶 Loose Leash Walking: Teach Polite Walking Manners
Walking on a loose leash is one of the most desirable skills to teach your dog. It promotes a pleasant walking experience for both of you and allows your dog to explore their surroundings without constant tension on the leash.
To achieve loose leash walking, use positive reinforcement techniques. Encourage your dog to walk beside you with treats, praise, or their favorite toy. Whenever they pull or tug on the leash, stop walking and wait for them to return to your side. As they learn that pulling doesn't get them where they want to go, they'll start to understand the benefits of walking politely.
🐶 Incorporate Obedience Drills for Mental Stimulation
In addition to physical exercise, dogs also need mental stimulation to stay happy and well-behaved. Walking presents an excellent opportunity to incorporate obedience drills that challenge your dog's mind.
For example, practice the "down" command during your walk. Ask your dog to lie down, reward them, and then continue walking. You can also add variations to the "heel" command, where your dog walks right beside you with their attention solely on you. These exercises keep your dog engaged and reinforce their training in different environments.
🐶 Introduce Distractions Gradually
As your dog becomes more proficient with basic commands during walks, it's important to introduce distractions gradually. Start with low-level distractions, such as other dogs or people at a distance, and reward your dog for maintaining focus on you and following commands. As they improve, gradually increase the level of distractions to further reinforce their training.
Incorporating basic commands into your daily strolls is a fantastic way to strengthen the bond between you and your furry friend while ensuring they remain well-behaved. Remember to keep training sessions short, positive, and enjoyable for your dog.
Consistency and patience are key.
With time and practice, your dog will become a well-trained companion who can confidently navigate the world alongside you. So, put on your walking shoes, grab the leash, and embark on an exciting journey of training and exploration with your canine companion!
🐾 Stay up to date with our latest and favorite training videos by following us on our social media platforms below
FACEBOOK PAGE or INSTAGRAM PAGE
Don't forget to leave us a comment and let us know which videos you like best :) 🐾
