December 19: Release words – Make it easier for your dog to understand when the exercise is over 🐕🎯
When we train our dogs to stay in a certain position – for example, in "basket" or "sit" – it is just as important that they know when to leave the position as that they can assume it. 🛏️🔑
Unfortunately, many people don't think about when an exercise ends, and this can confuse the dog. For some, "crate" just means "go there," and the dog thinks he's free to do whatever he wants. But by introducing a clear release word like "free" or "go," we make it easier for the dog to understand how long he's supposed to stay. 🕒🐾
Why use a release word?
1️⃣ Clarity: The dog knows exactly when to break the position, which provides a clear framework for training.
2️⃣ Less frustration: No guesswork! The dog will be calmer because he doesn't have to guess when he's "done."
3️⃣ More control in everyday life: You avoid the dog leaving its place before you are ready - for example when you have guests or are cooking. 🍲🎄
How to teach your dog a release word:
1. Choose a release word:
It could be "free," "bye," "brake," or any other word you think is appropriate. 🗣️
2. Exercise with a blanket or basket:
- Ask the dog to walk on its blanket or in the basket. 🛏️
- Reward it for staying there. 🦴✨
3. Use the release word:
- Say the release word, e.g. "free," and throw a treat away from the blanket or basket. 🍪
- The purpose is to show that the dog must leave the position when it hears the word.
4. Repeat and make it clear:
If the dog breaks the position without release, calmly lead him back without reward. Try again without frustration. 😊✋
A consistent framework provides peace of mind
When your dog understands that "basket" means "stay in the basket until I say free," everyday life becomes easier. No confusion – just clear communication and more harmony. 💚🐶
Using a release word makes it easier for the dog to understand what you want – and it creates a stronger relationship between you. Happy training! 🎅✨
About Zara Zachariasen from Dog Life
Zara is a dedicated dog trainer and passionate dog owner.
Zara's love for dogs and the relationship between dog and owner shines through in her approach to training. She pays attention to detail and often has a strong theoretical approach to her teaching.
Zara currently works full-time as a dog trainer in her company Hundeliv. Here she shares her knowledge with physical training classes, and as a presenter of webinars, workshops and articles.
Follow Zara on the Facebook page " Hundeliv ," where she shares her own training experiences and reflections.
Advent Calendar with Dog Life | Gate 19 - Teach your dog to understand the free signal
December 19: Release words – Make it easier for your dog to understand when the exercise is over 🐕🎯
When we train our dogs to stay in a certain position – for example, in "basket" or "sit" – it is just as important that they know when to leave the position as that they can assume it. 🛏️🔑
Unfortunately, many people don't think about when an exercise ends, and this can confuse the dog. For some, "crate" just means "go there," and the dog thinks he's free to do whatever he wants. But by introducing a clear release word like "free" or "go," we make it easier for the dog to understand how long he's supposed to stay. 🕒🐾
Why use a release word?
1️⃣ Clarity: The dog knows exactly when to break the position, which provides a clear framework for training.
2️⃣ Less frustration: No guesswork! The dog will be calmer because he doesn't have to guess when he's "done."
3️⃣ More control in everyday life: You avoid the dog leaving its place before you are ready - for example when you have guests or are cooking. 🍲🎄
How to teach your dog a release word:
1. Choose a release word:
It could be "free," "bye," "brake," or any other word you think is appropriate. 🗣️
2. Exercise with a blanket or basket:
- Ask the dog to walk on its blanket or in the basket. 🛏️
- Reward it for staying there. 🦴✨
3. Use the release word:
- Say the release word, e.g. "free," and throw a treat away from the blanket or basket. 🍪
- The purpose is to show that the dog must leave the position when it hears the word.
4. Repeat and make it clear:
If the dog breaks the position without release, calmly lead him back without reward. Try again without frustration. 😊✋
A consistent framework provides peace of mind
When your dog understands that "basket" means "stay in the basket until I say free," everyday life becomes easier. No confusion – just clear communication and more harmony. 💚🐶
Using a release word makes it easier for the dog to understand what you want – and it creates a stronger relationship between you. Happy training! 🎅✨
About Zara Zachariasen from Dog Life
Zara is a dedicated dog trainer and passionate dog owner.
Zara's love for dogs and the relationship between dog and owner shines through in her approach to training. She pays attention to detail and often has a strong theoretical approach to her teaching.
Zara currently works full-time as a dog trainer in her company Hundeliv. Here she shares her knowledge with physical training classes, and as a presenter of webinars, workshops and articles.
Follow Zara on the Facebook page " Hundeliv ," where she shares her own training experiences and reflections.