The Power of Short Dog Training Sessions

As a dog trainer, I notice times where humans, in an effort to improve their dog's obedience skills, may train their dogs for long durations. While I admire these humans' commitment, I also want to make a point about the importance of avoiding burn out on the dog's part. It's also important to find the things that motivate your dog and then always leave him wanting more.

Keeping training and play sessions short is the key to successful motivation training. If you keep your dogs interested and motivated, they will enjoy working with you and will be much more apt to snap to it when you ask something of them. Short, fun, controlled sessions will keep your dog coming back for more and can help you avoid having an over-stimulated dog with no impulse control or a dog that easily blows you off because he thinks he can get things whenever he wants.

If you make training fun and don't overdo it, your dogs will look forward to the next training session.

-Chad Culp, Certified Dog Trainer and Canine Behavior Consultant