Choose one observable goal
“Be good” is difficult to teach. “Stand on the mat while I put on my shoes” gives you something specific to practice and reward. Break the goal into small steps in a quiet setting before adding distractions.
Make success easy to repeat
Prepare rewards before starting and finish while the dog can still participate comfortably. If a task repeatedly goes wrong, simplify the setup rather than escalating pressure. AVSAB recommends reward-based methods and advises against aversive training methods.
Practice the handover between people
Agree on cues and how everyone will respond to common situations. Keep a brief note of what was practiced and what to try next. For fear, guarding or a bite concern, work with an appropriately qualified professional instead of applying a generic obedience exercise.
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