Dog Training, Obedience, and Agility: Unlocking the Secrets to Keeping Your Dog Busy

Dog Training: How to Completely Train Your Dog

1. Regular Exercise

Engage your dog in daily physical exercise, such as walks, runs, or playing fetch. The amount and intensity of exercise will depend on your dog's age, breed, and health. Exercise helps release pent-up energy and keeps your dog physically fit. Using something like a flirt pole can be a great way to exhaust your dog in a short amount of time. If trying to exercise your dog indoors with limited space a treadmill can be a wonderful tool to have, although assistance from a professional trainer is recommended.

2. Training and Tricks

As dog trainers we are bias, but genuinely feel that routine training sessions are paramount to avoiding behavioral issues. Frequent training sessions not only help reinforce good behavior but also keep your dog mentally engaged. Teach your dog new commands, tricks, or participate in dog sports like agility or obedience. Training provides mental stimulation and strengthens the bond between you and your dog. It also channels your dog's focus and builds their mental stamina. As human beings we expose ourselves to beneficial stress through things like weight lifting, studying, school, or hiring motivational coach. Every dog needs similar exposure to beneficial stress to prepare them for the outside world (e.g., cars, planes, fire works, people, noise, bikes, etc.).

3. Socialization

Dogs are social animals and benefit from positive interactions with other dogs and people. There is an argument in the dog training world that dogs don't need direct socialization with other canine outside of their pack. They feel that a dog abstaining from outside socialization more closely mirrors the behaviors of other pack oriented species. At METAK9 we believe that canine have evolved with a unique type of social fluidity and allowing your companion to socialize and network outside of their pack will enhance social intelligence and provide more well rounded social skills. Arrange playdates with friendly dogs or enroll your dog in group training classes to provide social opportunities. This helps prevent boredom and will release "feel good" chemicals that maintain a healthy psyche. Dog parks are very convenient and can be a lot of fun. However, they have a high risk associated with them in regard to dog fights. These violent encounters can lead to trauma for both you and your pup as well as injury and even fatality.

4. Toy Variation and Rotation

Instead of leaving all the toys accessible 24/7, rotate them every couple days. This keeps the toys fresh and exciting for your dog, preventing them from getting bored with the same ball or rope. Having too many toys available creates what we call the "spoiled child effect". Gifts that were once exciting are given too often and diminish in value, eventually ending up in the closet. You can also introduce new toys periodically to provide variety. Find toys that have unique traits which add to their fun factor. Well built chew toys made of natural rubber give your dog something to gnaw and work on. This will help release excess energy stored around their head and neck which alleviates stress and anxiety. Use common sense when purchasing toys. Avoid things that can splinter or shred easily and become choking or intestinal impaction hazards.

5. Food Enrichment

Use food-dispensing toys, puzzle feeders, or Kong toys filled with treats to make mealtime more challenging and interesting for your dog. Activities such as these stimulate their problem-solving skills and keeps them occupied while eating. Marrow bones, bully sticks, and stuffed Kongs are great duration treats and will keep them busy for an extending period of time. While peanut butter is great for Kongs, try using frozen wet food as it tends to last longer and won't give them loose stools. Always use quality wet food and limited ingredient treats, avoid low grade products high in byproducts, corn, and gluten. We don't have any quarrels with quality grains, but ratios are important and protein should be the main ingredient. We advise puppy owners to stay away from marrow bones as their baby teeth are very fragile. Toys and treats that last for a long duration are especially important for building a positive association with a kennel while crate training.

6. Explore New Environments

Take your dog on regular walks or outings to different parks, trails, or even new neighborhoods. Beaches, lakes, and even creeks can be a blast and are great for reducing fear of water. Dogs inherently like to roam, especially intact males who, in the wild, would be searching for a mate. Allowing them this freedom naturally stimulates their inner wanderer and allows them to experience new sights, smells, and sounds essential for exposure therapy. We advise extreme caution if you do decide to have your dog off-leash. Even if your dog is trained for long distance recalls it is important to be aware not only of your surroundings, but of your local laws regarding the use of a leash.

7. Quality Time

Spend quality time with your dog through activities like cuddling, grooming, and gentle massages. Clean their teeth, ears, and between their toes to maintain their hygiene and express your love. This will also get them used to being groomed and bathed at a professional establishment. Physical affection and bonding are important for your dog's emotional well-being and simulates natural pack behavior. It is important to note that we recommend our clients to only allow their pets on the bed or couch by invitation only. This is an important aspect of maintaining a hierarchy of leadership, setting boundaries, and avoiding entitlement reactivity.

8. Olfactory Stimulation

Dogs have a strong sense of smell, so engage their noses by creating scent trails in your backyard or home. You can teach them to identify specific scents such as their favorite toy or treat. Nose work or activities like "Find It" where your dog has to find hidden treats gives them work and provides a feeling of accomplishment and satisfaction upon completion.

9. Rotate Activities

Dogs thrive on variety, so mix up their daily routine. Introduce new activities, games, or challenges regularly to keep their minds engaged and prevent monotony. We always say if you don't give your dog a job, they will become self-employed, and that means you better hide your shoes!

Remember, every dog is unique, so observe your dog's preferences and adjust the activities accordingly. The goal is to provide a balanced combination of physical exercise, mental stimulation, and social interaction to keep your dog happy and stimulated. Consistently working with your pup and enriching their life will pay dividends long term and create a harmonious pack life. A majority of the tough dogs we train are suffering from lack of direction and excess energy. When a dog has nothing to do and energy to run for miles they are likely to develop bad habits. Many reactive dogs are spawned from lack of socialization and fear there are some that begin exhibiting aggressive behavior displays an outlet for energy and frustration. Breaking these bad habits can be very stressful and difficult, so taking a proactive approach is vital to avoiding it in the first place. Dog training in obedience, agility, and nose work will give your dog purpose, fulfillment, and most important, employment!