New Year Training Resolutions

Start the New Year by Rebooting Your Got Sit Dog Training

January is reboot month. Like hitting the control-alt-delete keys on our computers, this is the month we reset the systems we use to keep our lives running smoothly. Diet plans, exercise regimes, financial goals, career objectives… we look them over, revamp them and resolve to stick to a new. More effective version.

This rebooting can apply to your dog training too. Just like diets and exercise, it’s easy to let dog training go by the wayside when life gets hectic – and the holiday season was hectic! Now’s the perfect time to re-evaluate your training results, set new goals for your dog and recommit to the Got Sit training method.

Need some ideas to get started? Here are five suggestions for initiating a Got Sit dog training reboot.

1. Attend group classes. There’s no better way to give your training a boost than attending group classes. Both you and your dog will benefit from working in a structured environment with our experts on hand giving pointers and reminders.
2. Back to the basics. Can’t make it to group classes? Recommit to working with your dog on the Got Sit basics: come, sit, place. It never hurts to re-visit these cornerstones. Reviewing them hones your communication skills and reinforces expectations for your dog.
3. Teach a new trick. Expanding your dog’s trick repertoire is not only fun, but also a great way to re-establish your leadership position and regain your dog’s attention. If your dog isn’t ready for a new trick, use the basics (come, sit, place) and add distance. This may not have the wow power of a Cowboy handstand, but it’s a challenging and useful skill set.
4. Spend time together. The holiday season kept you busy. Chances are you haven’t spent a lot of time with your dog. Whether it’s going for a walk, playing in the yard or sitting quietly together, devoting some undivided attention to your pup will strengthen your relationship.
5. Go play. Dogs value play. Taking time to play with him/her increases your value. Throwing a ball, grabbing the tug-of-war rope, tossing a Frisbee, these simple activities not only get your dog tired (a tired dog is a happy dog!) but also cements your role as provider: you provide food, you provide shelter, you provide play. Three solid reasons for your dog to be highly focused on you.

As with all resolutions, recommitting to your dog’s training will have its up’s and down’s. That’s okay! The important thing is to stay the course. Consistency is key. The Got Sit team is always available to answer questions, provide helpful hints and, if necessary, give one-on-one guidance.

Rebooting your dog training doesn’t take a lot of time or effort. Like all resolutions, it simply takes awareness and focus. Have fun and good luck!

Are you inspired? Ready to up your dog training game? Have you made your dog training resolutions? What are they?! We want to know! Share your plans in the Comments section below or post them on our Facebook page. If you need help along the way, call us at 425.405.5748.