The Importance of a Dog Training Plan
Dog Training plans are crucial for success! Often we just wing our dog training and make it up as we go along. Or we follow one piece of advice for a while, then when it doesn’t work we switch to something else.
Have a plan makes it easier for both you and your dog to see results!
Why We Need a Dog Training Plan
1. Consistency
Having a plan helps everyone involved in your dog’s training do the same thing. You have everything written down and you all know exactly what to do.
2. Keeping Training Manageable
It’s normal to get carried away with your dog’s training and teach them lots of things at once, or aim for things your dog isn’t ready yet. A plan helps keep training realistic and in small, manageable chunks.
3. Clear Progressive Steps
When I write a plan, I always write down where your dog is now and where you would like your dog to get to. Then I write down lots of small steps in between the two. Although your dog might not be able to recall out of play with another dog yet, you can see in the plan how you will be able to get there.
4. Your Reference
Rather than having everything in your head, you can refer to the training plan whenever you need a wee reminder of what to practise.
What I Include in a Training Plan
1. Your Dog’s Behaviour Summary
I write down what your dog’s behaviour looks like now and what we would like it to look like in the future.
2. Useful Handouts and Extra Resources
These are full of diagrams and are extra information if you want to learn more about why your dog does what they do.
3. Your Key Cues
Key commands you are to practise with your dog for a few minutes several times a day.
4. What to Do Until Next Session
This section lists what you are to work on with your dog until our next session. It might include management strategies or how to apply your key cues to real situations.
5. Extra Notes
Anything else relevant to you and your dog e.g. recommended equipment, bonus exercises.
6. What We Will Cover Next Session
This can always change depending on how your dog has been getting on with their training and how you would like to use our time together.
