 Photo by Brett Sayles House training is one of the most important steps in building a harmonious life with your dog. Whether you have a new puppy or an adult dog who needs a refresher, establishing a consistent routine and using positive methods are key to success. Here are my top tips to guide you through the process.
Set Up for Success Creating an environment where your dog can succeed is essential. Start by supervising them closely and managing their space. Use crates, baby gates, or exercise pens to limit access to areas where accidents could occur. Dogs instinctively avoid soiling their sleeping areas, so a properly sized crate can be a powerful tool. Ensure it’s just big enough for your dog to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably. If they have too much room, they might designate one corner as a potty spot. Establish a Routine Dogs thrive on routine. Feed your dog at consistent times each day, which will help regulate when they need to relieve themselves.
Choose a Potty Spot and Put it on Cue When beginning house training, you’ll want to have your dog understand what you’re asking of them. Pick a specific area for potty breaks. Take your dog on leash to the same spot each time and wait patiently. While they are in the process, say something, like “Go potty,” to teach them the cue for the behavior. As they go, praise them warmly and offer a treat immediately. Timing is critical—reward them while they finish. Once your dog has learned the cue and the proper spot for elimination, you can let your dog outside and ask them to “Go potty,” and they will be clear about the mission. Supervise and Monitor Watch for signs your dog needs to go out, such as sniffing, circling, or whining. If you can’t supervise them directly, use confinement tools or enlist a family member’s help. Accidents often happen when dogs have too much freedom too soon. Handle Accidents Correctly Accidents are part of the process, so stay patient. If you catch your dog in the act, interrupt gently with a clap or verbal cue like “Oops!” Then take them outside immediately. Avoid punishment, as it can create fear or confusion and slow progress. For cleanups, use an enzymatic cleaner to remove any lingering odors. Dogs tend to return to areas where they’ve previously gone if the scent isn’t completely eliminated. Stay Positive House training takes time, but positive reinforcement will keep your dog motivated to learn. Celebrate small successes and stay consistent with your rewards. Patience and kindness build trust and encourage your dog to work with you. Adjust for Special Circumstances If you are house training an adult dog or one with a history of inconsistent training, follow the same steps but be mindful of any emotional or medical needs they may have. Consult your veterinarian if accidents persist despite your efforts—they might indicate a health issue. Stick With It Consistency is your best friend in house training. Keep track of your dog’s progress and adjust as needed. While the process can be challenging, the rewards of a well-trained, confident dog are well worth the effort. If you’re struggling with house training or need personalized guidance, reach out for support. I’m here to help you and your dog navigate this process with confidence and compassion. Together, we can make house training a positive experience for both of you!
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 When it comes to solving common canine problems, common sense can be easily abandoned and frustration will reign. We keep trying the same things that should work, and then wonder which end of the leash has a problem.
This brings to mind a comment made by a man walking his dog on a choke chain. Sadly, the dog was strangling himself as he doggedly pulled on the leash. The man remarked, “I’ve been using this thing for three years. You’d think he’d learn!” Obviously the human end of the leash hadn't learned anything in this situation. Commonsense solutions to common problems involve baby steps. We’ll break the training down into small steps and train each step solidly before moving on to the next. Oftentimes, this means starting from the end. For instance, if we’re trying to change the behavior of a dog with who jumps on people, we won’t start by inviting guests to our home and then expect to teach the dog to sit quietly when the doorbell rings. Instead, we’ll teach the dog to sit quietly for greetings with people already in the house and work backwards from there. In this post, we’ll take a fresh look at some common problems and look at key tips for commonsense solutions. Key Tips for Excessive Barking
Key Tips for Polite Door Greetings
Key Tips for Training Leash Walking Skills
Key Tips for Training Recall (Come when Called)
Key Tips for Preventing and Changing Destructive Behavior
Key Tips for Preventing Digging
Now that I’ve given you the key tips for dealing with some common unwanted behaviors, you might be asking how to employ them? You can book a session with me for personal coaching or you can purchase my book entitled, No Problem: Behavior Solutions that Work with Your Dog, Not Against Them. It offers a fresh approach to dog training that respects your dog’s instincts and emotional needs. Book a session: https://calendly.com/dog-training-coaching/60min?month=2024-11 Get the book: https://tinyurl.com/39rsy8wd  Photo by Lisa Fotios Working with dogs who have special needs is a journey of patience, understanding, and adaptability. These dogs, whether they’re dealing with physical limitations, behavioral challenges, or emotional sensitivities, require us to approach their training in a way that respects their unique experiences and needs. In my work at Peaceful Paws, I blend positive reinforcement techniques with empathy and compassion, which can be particularly impactful for dogs with special needs. Let’s dive into some of the key techniques that can make training a fulfilling experience for both you and your special-needs companion.
Start with Empathy and Observation Each special-needs dog has their own story and unique ways of interacting with the world. Before diving into any specific training exercises, I spend time observing and connecting with the dog. This is essential to understanding how they process information and what might help them feel safe and supported. For example, a dog who is hard of hearing may rely more on visual cues, while a dog with anxiety may need a calm, gradual introduction to new activities. Use Positive Reinforcement—Gently Positive reinforcement works wonders, especially with special-needs dogs. It’s all about rewarding behaviors you want to see more of, which helps build trust and encourage engagement. However, for some dogs with special needs, even positive reinforcement must be adapted. For example, if a dog is sensitive to touch due to a past trauma or physical condition, a verbal cue like “Good job!” or a treat reward may be more effective than physical praise. Tailoring the type of reinforcement to each dog is a central part of my approach. Focus on Clear and Consistent Cues Clear communication is especially vital for special-needs dogs. For dogs with hearing impairments, using hand signals instead of voice commands can make training easier and more intuitive for them. On the other hand, for dogs with vision impairments, consistent verbal cues paired with specific scents can help them understand what’s expected. Developing a shared “language” creates a foundation of trust and predictability, which is comforting for all dogs, but especially those with special needs. Break Down Tasks into Small, Achievable Steps For dogs who may struggle with physical tasks or who find new experiences overwhelming, breaking down training exercises into small steps can make a world of difference. Rather than teaching a complex behavior all at once, I work in stages, celebrating each small accomplishment. This approach helps the dog build confidence without feeling overwhelmed. For example, when teaching a dog with mobility challenges to navigate stairs, we might start with just one step at a time, rewarding and encouraging along the way. Create a Calm, Controlled Environment The right environment is key when training special-needs dogs. An overstimulating environment can make learning difficult, especially for dogs with anxiety or sensory sensitivities. I find it beneficial to start training sessions in a quiet, familiar space where the dog feels safe. Once they’re comfortable with a behavior in a controlled setting, we can gradually introduce new distractions or locations. Be Ready to Adapt and Adjust Flexibility is at the heart of training special-needs dogs. What works one day might need a tweak the next, depending on the dog’s mood, health, or environment. I always approach each session with an open mind, ready to adjust the plan if needed. It’s not uncommon for a dog to show me, in their own way, that a particular method isn’t working for them, and I strive to honor that feedback. It’s in these moments that the connection deepens, and I learn as much from them as they do from me. Embrace the Progress—Big and Small Every dog’s progress is unique, and the milestones will look different for each one. Some days, the progress may seem small, like a dog feeling comfortable approaching a new object, while other days, there might be a breakthrough that feels monumental. Celebrating these wins, no matter how small, reinforces the bond between you and your dog and acknowledges their efforts. Training a special-needs dog is less about the destination and more about the journey we take together. Training a dog with special needs may require extra patience and creativity, but the rewards are profound. These dogs teach us about resilience, adaptability, and the power of connection. By approaching their training with empathy, clarity, and flexibility, we open the door to a relationship built on trust and mutual understanding. At Peaceful Paws, I am honored to walk this path with each special-needs dog and their human companion, helping them discover new ways to communicate and deepen their bond. After all, every dog deserves the opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive in a way that respects their unique needs.  Photo by Kampus Production You’ve probably heard a lot about how crucial consistency is in dog training—and that’s true! But it’s important to understand where consistency really matters and where flexibility can actually benefit you and your dog.
When Consistency is Key Let’s start with cues (the signals you give your dog to perform specific behaviors). Being consistent with the words you use is essential. For instance, if you use the word “down” to ask your dog to lie down, but also use “down” when they’re jumping up on you, you’re setting the stage for confusion. Similarly, if you sometimes say “down” to ask your dog to lie down, but other times say “chill” or “relax,” it can be tough for your dog to understand what you really want. While it’s possible for dogs to learn different words for the same behavior, keeping it simple by using the same cue each time is often the best route. This is particularly true when teaching new behaviors, as consistency helps your dog learn more quickly and clearly. Consistency isn’t just about the words you use—it extends to the tone of your voice and how often you give the cue. For example, repeating a cue over and over can become background noise to your dog. They might even start thinking they don’t need to respond until you’ve said it multiple times. By saying the cue once, you avoid teaching your dog that ignoring you the first few times is an option. Another area where consistency matters is in how often you practice a behavior. Let’s say you’re working on polite leash walking. If you’re asking your dog to walk nicely most of the time, but occasionally let them pull because they’re excited to sniff something, you’re sending mixed signals. Your dog might learn that pulling on the leash works when they really want something, which can undermine your training efforts. If leash manners are something you’re struggling with, feel free to reach out. I have some effective strategies for teaching polite leash walking! Where Consistency Can Work Against You Now, here’s where things get tricky—consistency isn’t always a good thing. Humans are naturally inconsistent, and that can sometimes work against us in training. The real challenge arises when we’re not around to maintain that consistency. For instance, let’s talk about potty training. Ideally, we’re consistently taking our puppy outside when they need to go and rewarding them for pottying outside. But what happens when we’re at work or out of the house? We can’t be there to take them out, and that’s where problems arise. The puppy might learn that it’s okay to potty inside when you’re not home because no one is there to take them outside or correct them. Even worse, your puppy may figure out that they can go potty in the house whenever you’re not looking. A fascinating study showed that dogs are aware when you’re paying attention to them. In this study, dogs were told to “leave it” when a treat was placed in front of them. As long as the human was watching, the dogs wouldn’t take the treat. But as soon as the person closed their eyes, many of the dogs grabbed the treat! It’s fun to try this with your own dog. Dogs are incredibly observant, and they can quickly learn when you’re unavailable to redirect them—whether you’re washing dishes or getting into the shower. This can be especially problematic with behaviors like potty training and destructive chewing. Planning for Inconsistencies The best way to handle the inconsistencies we can’t control is by planning for them. For example, in the case of potty training, you might want to use crates, baby gates, or puppy pads when you’re not able to be there. This way, you’re preventing the puppy from developing bad habits when you’re not around to guide them. Below are some links to resources that can help with potty training and managing destructive chewing. Consistency, where it matters, will go a long way in helping your dog learn faster and more reliably. In the meantime, happy training! Potty Training: https://acrobat.adobe.com/id/urn:aaid:sc:VA6C2:6b6f792b-56b7-4b41-894a-33b79c9c51b2 Destructive Chewing: https://acrobat.adobe.com/id/urn:aaid:sc:VA6C2:ba367490-5c9e-4764-8d9c-44285dc460d1  One of the most important things I emphasize in my dog training is the significance of proper socialization. Whether you're starting with a new puppy or working with an adult dog, the socialization process is crucial for helping them feel comfortable and confident in various environments. It sets the foundation for their entire life—shaping how they interact with people, animals, and the world around them.
However, when it comes to puppies under four months old, socialization needs to be approached with a focus on safety. Since puppies this young have developing immune systems and are not fully vaccinated, we must balance their need for exposure with protecting their health. Safely Socializing Puppies Under Four Months Old
Socializing Puppies: Early and Often Once you’ve laid the groundwork for safe socialization, you can begin exposing your puppy to a variety of experiences. Remember to always go at their pace and use positive reinforcement to build confidence. Here’s how I typically approach socializing puppies:
Socializing Adult Dogs: It’s Never Too Late If you’ve adopted an adult dog or have a dog that didn’t get much socialization early on, don’t worry—there’s still plenty of hope! While it can take more time and patience, socialization is possible, no matter the dog’s age. My approach to adult dogs differs slightly from working with puppies:
Common Mistakes to Avoid There are a few pitfalls I see people fall into when trying to socialize their dogs, both puppies and adults. Here’s what to watch out for:
Final Thoughts In my work at Peaceful Paws, I see firsthand how properly socialized dogs are happier, more confident, and better equipped to handle whatever life throws their way. Whether you’re working with a playful puppy or a more reserved adult dog, taking the time to focus on socialization will pay off in the long run. Remember, patience, positivity, and safety are key to socialization, especially with young puppies. Every new experience is an opportunity for your dog to learn and grow. You can find a complete guide to socialization in my book Whole World, Whole Dog: Socializing Your Dog to People, Places, and Things: https://tinyurl.com/3cnz5udc  Photo by Los Muertos Crew Dining at restaurants with dogs is not a right, but a privilege and one ill-mannered dog (or person) can spoil that privilege. It is ultimately a courtesy of the restaurant to allow dogs. Because state health regulations must be followed, owners have the final say as to whether or not dogs are allowed in their establishment's outside dining areas. Pets are mainly banned from restaurants due to health and safety concerns. Therefore, only the best-behaved, should be ambassadors for the cause. Dogs must be masters of basic obedience behaviors or they won’t be welcomed by restaurateurs and patrons. At very least, dogs must know sit, down, and stay. But to set a good example and remain in favor with the establishment, we’ll have Fido rocking his behavior in public. Beyond Fido’s Manners: Minding our End of the Leash
Fido’s Manners
Beyond the Basics for Dining with Fido As with teaching any behavior, we won’t be doing on-the-job training. We’ll do it at home with little or no distraction, and then gradually working up to the real-life situation. We must first build a firm foundation and then help the dog to generalize the desired behaviors. The first visit to a restaurant will be short, having only a cup of coffee. We’ll practice and generalize beforehand by going to other places where dogs are typically allowed, such as pet supply and home improvement stores.  Photo by Skyler Ewing:
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pat BlockerPat Blocker is a certified professional dog trainer with a wealth of experience in the field. With a deep understanding of canine behavior and training techniques, she has dedicated her career to helping individuals create a peaceful and enriching environment for their dogs. |
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