5 Dog Training Tips Every Dog Owner Should Know

Updated: Aug 11

No gimmicks. No fluff. Just real-world advice that works for you and your dog.

Here are 5 dog training tips:

Stop Repeating Commands.
If you say “Sit, sit, sit, SIT,” your dog learns to ignore the first three.
Say it once. Help them get it right. Praise immediately.
Reward the Calm—Not Just the Crazy.
Don’t wait until your dog is bouncing off the walls to give them attention.
Notice and reward when they’re relaxed and calm. That’s the real magic.
Leash Tension = Brain Tension.
If you’re always walking with a tight leash, your dog’s probably tuned up.
Loosen the leash. Teach pressure and release. Give the brain space to breathe.
Structure Before Freedom.
Dogs thrive with routine.
Free roaming, couch privileges, and off-leash freedom come after they’ve earned it through consistency and trust.
Be Clear. Be Fair. Be Consistent.
Training isn’t about being the boss.
It’s about being a calm, reliable leader.
The kind your dog can look to and say, “You’ve got this—so I don’t have to.”

The SAPPER K9 team works with dogs of all breeds and behavior levels.