One-on-One Time: Our Secret Weapon for Happy, and Engaged Pups!

As a family with a house full of wagging tails and a few other critters, we've learned a lot about managing a multi-pet household. One of the biggest lessons? The power of one-on-one time with each of our furry family members.

When you're diving into the world of pet training—whether it's with a trainer, a book, or a podcast—the first piece of advice you always hear is to start in a distraction-free environment. We often think of our living rooms or bedrooms, and those are great spots! What we often forget about are the other "household members" – especially our other canine companions.

The Sibling Rivalry is Real!

Simply having another dog in the same room can be a massive distraction. There's always that unspoken question: "What's Fido doing? Is he getting better treats? More attention? Is his training more fun than mine?" Trust us, sibling rivalry isn't just for humans! Your dogs are trying their best to focus on you while also keeping tabs on their housemates.

Take the Pressure Off with Dedicated One-on-One Sessions

We've found that the best way to handle this is to take the pressure off everyone. Instead of trying to multitask with multiple dogs, set aside dedicated one-on-one training time (a few minutes will do) with just one dog. While one pup gets your undivided attention, the others can be happily occupied in another part of the house with something enriching and tasty, like a stuffed Kong, a puzzle toy, or something else that is extra special just for this time.

This isn't just about training; it's about so much more:

• Special Treats: They'll get something truly special that they don't always receive.

  
  

• Invaluable Bonding: That focused time with you is priceless. You'll see their ability to focus and engage soar.

  
  

• Reduced Stress: You'll have fewer things to juggle, leading to a more relaxing and enjoyable experience for both of you.

It's always recommended that we meet our dogs where they are; this allows us to do just that.

You'll be amazed at how quickly your dog picks up new behaviors when they're truly engaged. And don't worry, once they've got a solid grasp of a new skill, you can gradually introduce distractions—like their "roommate"—to really solidify their learning.

Don't Forget Your Senior Pups!

And a special note for those of you with a new puppy alongside an older dog: remember to schedule some one-on-one time for your senior furry friends, too. They deserve that focused attention and special bonding just as much! We firmly believe you're never too old to learn new tricks, especially when delicious treats are involved! 😉

Ultimately, training should always be a fun and positive experience for everyone involved—paws, claws, and all! Jill Kudera, CPDT-KA, Certified Professional Dog Trainer

Licensed and Insured

Licensed Veterinary Technician

Canine and Feline CPR and First Aid Certified