When I first brought my pup home during the pandemic, I had all the time in the world. Between Zoom calls and long afternoons on the couch, training actually felt like a bonding activity. We tackled crate training, basic commands, and even some fun tricks. But once life slowly shifted back to “normal” and I returned to work full-time, our routine got harder to maintain. That consistency we built during lockdown started to slip, and little behaviors I thought we had conquered began creeping back in.
I realized something important: dog training isn’t a one-and-done deal. It’s a lifestyle. The more patient, positive, and consistent we are, the more confident and well-adjusted our dogs become.
In this guide, I’ll share the core training techniques every dog lover should know, including how to crate train the right way, use positive reinforcement effectively, manage separation anxiety, and help your dog become a social superstar. Whether you're raising a new puppy or brushing up with your senior sidekick, these tips will help you build a better bond with your best friend.
Crate training is one of the most valuable tools in any dog parent’s toolbox when done right. The crate should never feel like doggy jail. Instead, think of it as your pup’s personal den, a cozy retreat where they can relax and feel safe.
Start by introducing the crate in a slow and positive manner. Leave the door open and toss a treat or favorite toy inside, encouraging them to explore on their own. When your dog enters the crate willingly, offer plenty of praise. Over time, short sessions inside the crate with the door closed will build comfort and trust. Using the crate for naps, bedtime, or quiet time helps your dog view it as a safe space, rather than a punishment.
That brings us to what not to do. Never use the crate as a form of discipline or time-out. Your dog should never be afraid to go inside. Also, avoid leaving them crated for too long. Puppies, in particular, need frequent potty breaks and interaction. And please, don’t slam the crate door shut behind them or force them in — it only creates stress.
My favorite crate setup? A soft blanket, a frozen peanut butter Kong, and calming background music. A little routine goes a long way.
If there's one thing every dog trainer agrees on, it’s this: positive reinforcement works. Dogs thrive on encouragement and consistency. When we reward good behavior, we’re telling them, “Yes, that’s what I want you to do again!”
The rewards you use can vary, food treats, enthusiastic praise, a quick toss of their favorite ball, or even clicker training if you want to get more advanced. What matters most is timing. The reward needs to come immediately after the desired behavior, or your dog won’t understand what they’re being praised for.
In the early stages of training, treats are your best friend. But as your dog becomes more reliable, you can slowly phase out the food and rely more on verbal praise and affection. This helps ensure your dog listens even when there’s no snack in sight.
Consistency is key. Everyone in the household should use the same cues and reward system. Otherwise, your pup may receive mixed messages and become confused or frustrated.
And yes, there’s nothing quite like the face of a happy pup getting a treat for sitting like a champ. It's the kind of joy that makes training completely worthwhile.
After months of being together 24/7 during COVID, a lot of dogs developed separation anxiety, and honestly, who could blame them? Suddenly, we went from daily snuggles to long workdays away from home, and that shift can be tough.
Signs of separation anxiety include whining, destructive chewing, pacing, or bathroom accidents shortly after you leave. If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone.
The key to managing separation anxiety is desensitization. Start by leaving the house for short periods, even just five minutes, and gradually increase the time. Make departures and returns low-key, avoiding dramatic goodbyes or excited greetings. Leaving your dog with a special toy, like a treat-stuffed puzzle or a snuffle mat, gives them something to focus on besides your absence.
Creating a calm environment helps, too. White noise machines, pheromone diffusers, or a favorite blanket can all provide comfort. If your dog’s anxiety feels extreme or doesn’t improve, it may be time to consult a professional trainer or a veterinary behaviorist. They can tailor a plan specifically for your pup.
Some dogs are natural social butterflies. Others are more reserved, needing time to warm up to new people or pups. Either way, socialization is critical for a well-rounded, confident dog.
Early socialization should begin as soon as it’s safe and your puppy is vaccinated. But even older dogs can benefit from structured exposure to new sights, sounds, and experiences. Introduce your dog to new people, dogs, and environments slowly, always making it a positive experience with treats and encouragement.
Puppy classes, group walks, or playdates with trusted friends are great ways to build confidence. Watch your dog’s body language. A wagging tail and soft eyes usually mean comfort. But stiff posture, yawning, or turning away can signal stress or overwhelm. Respect their boundaries and avoid pushing them too far, too fast.
And if you’re not sure where your pup falls on the social scale, ask yourself, is your dog a social butterfly or more of a shy sidekick? Either is okay. The goal is to help them feel safe and supported in all kinds of settings.
Every dog has their moments. Barking at the mailman, nipping during play, or stealing snacks off the counter are all normal dog behaviors. But understanding why your dog does something is the first step toward changing it.
Barking can be triggered by boredom, anxiety, or guarding instincts. If your dog barks when left alone, it may be a sign of separation anxiety. If it’s at the window, they could be alerting or feeling territorial. Providing mental stimulation, daily exercise, and managing their environment can significantly reduce unwanted barking.
Biting or nipping is common in puppies and usually stems from teething or play. Redirect them with a toy, offer frozen chews, and end playtime if they get too rough. For older dogs exhibiting aggression or guarding behaviors, it’s essential to work with a certified trainer to address these behaviors safely and effectively.
Every behavior has a reason. When you shift from punishment to positive redirection, you start building trust instead of fear.
Training a dog isn’t about perfection. It’s about progress. Some days, your dog will nail every command, and on other days, they’ll ignore you completely and chase a butterfly instead. That’s okay. What matters most is that you show up, stay consistent, and lead with love.
Celebrate the small wins, the quiet crate time, the polite leash greeting, and the sit that happens on the first try. These moments are your building blocks.
Have a training success story or a question you’ve been stuck on? Drop it in the comments. We love learning from each other and cheering each other on. And if you’re ready to tackle leash manners next, don’t miss our upcoming post, “How to Train Your Dog to Walk Without Pulling”, because walks should be fun for both of you.