4 key tips to see results with your dog's training

Create a communication system

Without a communication system, it can be incredibly difficult for your dog to understand what you are asking of them. It is crucial that you communicate with them using simple words and commands to avoid confusement. For example, if I said to my dog "Monty would you please sit down whilst I tie my shoe lace and then walk over to the bin to get rid of my rubbish", he would be very confused; whereas, if I just say "Monty, sit" and then use a marker after, he will easily understand what is being asked of him.

The most important markers are:

• correction marker

• release marker

• continuation marker

• terminal marker

Teach the most important commands first

As impressive as it is that your dog can play dead or roll over, teaching this should never be a priority unless your dog knows all of the first vital commands which are:

• heel work

• recall (a complete non-negotiable)

• sit and down positions (and be able to stay in them until released).

Build motivation

Without your dog being motivated to work and learn with you, you will never be entirely successful with your training. To build motivation, focus on hand feeding all meals and using a daily food allowance to train your dog, work on co-operative play, and remove all free access to toys so that when you bring a toy out, it is much more exciting and your dog wants to work with you to get their reward!

Consistency

Set aside a certain amount of time each day to fully tune into your dog and work them. For example, 15 minutes every morning and evening where you tidy up learnt behaviours or teach new commands. Consistently working on commands every day helps your dog to understand and remember the commands more over time.