Training in the Park

The dog park is a wonderful place to practice training.  If you recall your dog for short training sessions every couple of minutes, then tell them to go play again, you are using the other dogs as both a powerful distraction and reward.

It’s much better to teach a rock-solid distance sit, but a good distance recall can also be very useful.

True off–leash control means that your dog will listen to you even when they’re in the middle of another fun activity.  Until you have this control, be very careful of where you let them fun free.

The more fun you can make training, the more you and your dog will want to practice, and the better behaved your dog will be.  Use games to make training into a good time.

Use short and varied exercises to keep training fun.  If your dog is losing interest, try a different exercise or take a break and come back to it later.  You can never practice recalls too much!

Ian & his malamute Omaha practice a little heeling and distance obedience at the park.  SIRIUS Puppy Training Classic is dedicated to Omaha.

Socialization is a never ending process, just because you socialized your puppy well doesn't mean you can neglect them when they get older. Take your dog on walk and trips to the park.

The key to teaching your dog to follow is walking away. If you do your best to lose your dog he will quickly learn that he needs to keep a close eye on you!

Using obstacles in an outdoor following course is a great way to practice maintaining your dogs attention while walking. Just remember whos following who.