It is important to train your dogs, and almost all of us are well aware of that fact. Normally, dogs are adopted when they are small pups, and it is necessary to teach them the essential skills they need to thrive in everyday life.
Now, we are aware that this may sound like a huge responsibility, and the prospect can also sound a bit intimidating. But it’s quite simple, really.
What you need to do here is build up a dog training plan. This implies a timetable that draws up a schedule outlining the various activities of the dog. Stick to that schedule, and you’ll see a marked improvement in your puppy’s behavior.
Divide the activities by their nature, time, and category; keep running for a particular day, followed by a day dedicated to walking, and then fetch training. You can also keep aside time slots for food, sleep, and social training (getting it accustomed to other people and pets). We are going to offer a thorough guideline to you in this regard.
Why You Need a Dog Training Plan
Like humans, dogs also need consistency when it comes to picking up habits. If you want them to lead a disciplined and healthy life, then you should enforce schedules and time limits, especially when it comes to playtime.
Some dog breeds are very high-energy and require more time dedicated to play and exercise. On the other hand, many dogs, such as lapdogs and handbag dogs, are content and fine with a more limited outdoor time.
You should gauge what kind of time is required for the breed you own. Research on your dog’s breed-specific requirements, and also take it to a vet if necessary.
There are numerous benefits to this, such as building up your dog’s confidence, allowing it to identify a niche for itself in the family, or even staying healthy and alert.
Setting Up Your Daily Dog Training Routine
You can train your dog for the basics, such as teaching it to follow commands. Start with ‘sit,’ ‘stand down,’ or ‘lie down.’
Reward it with treats every time it does something correctly. Also, do the reverse—if you find them being intentionally stubborn or disobedient, then you should deny them their favorite treats or toys for a while. Also, don’t hesitate to put them through small punishments, don’t be harsh but don’t be too lenient while training!
The 15-Day Dog Training Plan
Well, here’s where we jump straight to the topic: training your dog! It’s nothing huge, just the basics. But make sure you’re doing it wisely and well.
So, let’s get started without any further ado:
Day 1: Building Trust And Attention
The first thing that you need to ensure is that your dog focuses on you. You can start by calling out their name in a spirited and cheerful manner. This will help them understand that you love them and want the best for them. Be sure to address them with “Good boy/girl!” Make sure you repeat this several times throughout the day.
Now, let’s come to behavior conditioning. You should introduce an easily identifiable word, such as “Yes!” or ‘Good!’ to encourage them every time they display correct behavior. This teaches your dog that you are going to reward them. Make sure that your dog is making eye contact with you when you call it by its name.
Day 2: The ‘Sit’ Command
This is one of the easiest and most useful commands. Here’s how to do it– hold a treat close to your dog’s nose, and then slowly move it upward. When they follow the treat, their body will ultimately be in a ‘sitting’ position.
At that moment, say “sit!” and give them a treat. This is how you teach them to sit on command. Keep repeating this several times throughout the day.
Day 3: The ‘Stay’ Command
This should come after your dog masters the ‘sit’ command. The ‘stay’ command should be next in line. You should ask them to sit and then show your palm (in the same manner as a “stop” gesture).
Say the word, ‘Stay.’ Then, you should take one small step back. Watch if your dog obeys the command. If it does, come back and give the reward.
Do this several times a day (like the above command), and then gradually increase the duration and distance. Do this until your dog is fully trained.
Day 4: The ‘Come’ Command
This is a very critical command. This recall is critical for a dog to learn its safety and freedom. For this, you should use a light leash and kneel down before your dog.
You should say, ‘come!’ while carefully tugging on its leash. When your dog finally comes, you should reward it with treats. Also, don’t forget to praise it.
You should repeat this in various locations so that you can generalize the behavior. If it refuses to budge after several attempts, then rebuke it to show your displeasure.
Some dogs are stubborn by nature and can take time to pick this up. Remain firm and show them that you’re not going to stop until you have learned their lesson.
Day 5: The ‘Down’ Command
Teach your dog to lie down. For an easier method, we suggest that you teach it simultaneously with the ‘sit’ command. First, hold a treat at their nose level. After that, move it slowly to the floor between their paws. After they lower themselves, say ‘down’. This should be followed by a reward.
If your dog fails to understand, then use your hand to guide them under your bent leg. Also, offer an obstacle in order to encourage lying down. This will make it easier for the dog to pick it up.
Day 6: The ‘Leave It’ Command
The command ‘leave it’ is essential to prevent dogs from grabbing harmful or unwanted objects.
Here’s how to train it: First, place a treat in your hand and let your dog sniff. When they try to eat it, say ‘back off’ and snatch your hand away.
Do this until they pick up the meaning of the command. When they finally get it right, reward them. You can also place treats on the ground, cover them with your hand, and repeat the same process. Do it again and again with various objects.
Day 7: Leash Manners
A lot of dogs tend to pull on their leashes. However, the proper leash training can fix it. You need to hold the leash in your hand and walk forward.
When your dog starts pulling, stop walking. When they come back to your side, say “yes!” After that, resume your walking. You need to be a little stricter here in comparison to the other commands.
Day 8: More Leash Manners
You should continue the practice in a more distracting environment. Choose a quiet street or park. While practicing, add the occasional “sit” and “stay” breaks in order to reinforce control and attention.
Practice short sessions where your dog walks beside you without pulling. Use treats or praise to reward loose-leash walking and gentle corrections when they tug. Consistency is key, so repeat the exercise daily. With patience, your dog will learn that staying close and calm makes walks more fun and rewarding.
Day 9: The ‘Drop It’ Command
This command is very different from “leave it.” The ‘drop it’ command teaches your dog to release something that they already have in their mouth.
Here, you should make use of treats. Give them a toy. When they grab it, you should offer a tasty treat and say, “Drop it.” When they let go, reward them. Do this with several random objects.
Day 10: Socialization
You should expose your dog to new sights, sounds, and experiences. This will reduce their fear and build up confidence. Make them meet your family, friends, neighbors, other friendly dogs, etc. Make sure to keep their interactions brief and friendly.
Do not take them to meet anyone who is known to be scared of dogs. Reward it for being calm and a ‘good boy/girl’.
Day 11: The ‘Wait’ Command
This is different from the ‘stay’ command. While ‘means “hold still,” the ‘wait’ command means “pause until released.” You should use it before opening doors or feeding it.
How to do it– Ask your dog to “wait,” and then open the door slightly. In case they rush forward, close it immediately. And if they stay back, then say “okay!” in order to release them. This helps in building patience and self-control.
Day 12: Grooming Practice
Many dogs dislike being touched on their paws, ears, or mouth. Get them comfortable with gentle handling.
Touch their paws, ears, and tail softly while offering treats. Gradually extend this to brushing, nail checks, or teeth cleaning. Make grooming sessions short and positive.
Day 13: The ‘Bed’ Command
This teaches your dog to go to a designated spot and stay there. Point to a mat or bed and say “Place.”
When your dog steps on it, reward. Gradually ask them to sit or lie down on the bed. Use this command during meals or when guests visit to keep your dog calm and out of the way.
Day 14: Distraction
This is like a test for all the commands you have put together so far. Now, offer added distractions.
Practice commands like “Sit,” “Stay,” and “Come” in busier areas or with mild noises. You can have some toys or other dogs around. Increase the challenge slowly. Reward success, and end sessions on a positive note.
Day 15: Review
Your final day is all about reviewing whatever you have taught your doggo. Go through all learned commands in one fun, playful session. Mix obedience drills with games like fetch or tug.
Praise your dog’s progress. Remember, training never truly ends; it’s an ongoing relationship built on trust, respect, and consistency.
Conclusion
Many people think that training a dog is only about obedience. However, that’s far from the truth. A well-trained dog is confident, relaxed, and easier to live with. This 15-day plan helps you build a good foundation for obedience and communication. Remember, every dog learns at their own pace. So give them the time they need.
Did you enjoy reading this article? Do you have any insights to share on training your dog? If yes, share them with us. We love to hear from you!
