Training a dog is a rewarding experience that strengthens your bond with your furry companion. While online dog training offers convenience and accessibility, it also presents unique challenges. More than specific commands can be complicated to teach in a virtual setting, where the lack of in-person interaction and immediate feedback can complicate the learning process. In this blog, we’ll explore the seven hardest things to teach a dog in online training and how to overcome these challenges to ensure successful learning.
1. The “Stay” Command: Mastering Patience from Afar
The “Stay” command is among the most challenging to teach in any setting, but it becomes even more difficult in online dog training. This command requires your dog to remain calm in one spot, often for extended periods. Without the physical presence of a trainer, maintaining your dog’s focus and preventing them from breaking the stay can be tricky. Dogs naturally want to follow their owners, so staying put while you move away can be confusing and frustrating for them. Success in teaching this command online relies heavily on clear, consistent instructions and gradual practice, starting with short distances and durations before slowly increasing both.
2. The “Leave It” Command: Resisting Temptation
“Leave It” is a crucial command that teaches dogs to ignore distractions, whether food on the ground, another dog, or a tempting toy. This command is notoriously tricky to master online because it involves impulse control, which many dogs struggle with. In a virtual setting, demonstrating the command effectively can be challenging, as the trainer isn’t physically present to guide the dog away from the object of their desire. To make progress, you’ll need to use high-value treats as rewards, gradually increase the level of distraction, and practice in a controlled environment where you can easily manage what your dog is exposed to.
3. The “Heel” Command: Perfecting the Walk Virtually
Teaching a dog to “Heel,” or walk calmly beside you without pulling, is one of the most challenging commands to master in online dog training. This command requires precise timing and physical cues, which can be hard to convey through a screen. Without the ability to walk alongside your dog and correct their behaviour in real-time, it’s easy for the dog to become confused or revert to pulling on the leash. Success with this online command often depends on breaking down the training into small, manageable steps and using video demonstrations to show what you expect from your dog during walks.
4. The “Come” Command: Reliable Recall from a Distance
The “Come” command, or recall, is vital for your dog’s safety, but it can be one of the most complex commands to teach online. This command requires your dog to immediately return to you, no matter what distractions are present. Creating a situation where your dog wants to come to you while you’re physically distant can be challenging in an online setting. Dogs are often more motivated by what’s happening around them than by a distant voice calling them back. To improve recall in online training, it’s essential to make coming to you the most rewarding experience possible by using enthusiastic praise, favourite toys or treats your dog can’t resist.
5. The “Drop It” Command: Releasing Objects on Cue
“Drop It” is a command that teaches your dog to release whatever they have in their mouth, whether it’s a toy, a shoe, or something dangerous. This command can be tricky to teach online because it involves a physical exchange between you and your dog. Without the ability to guide your dog’s mouth or hands-on practice, convincing them to let go of a prized possession can be tricky. To overcome this challenge, start with objects your dog is less attached to and use high-value treats as a trade. Gradually work up to more valuable items, always rewarding your dog for obeying the command.
6. The “Wait” Command: Pausing Before Action
Like “Stay,” the “Wait” command requires your dog to pause before taking action, whether waiting at the door before going outside or waiting for permission to eat. This command can be challenging to teach online because it involves timing and impulse control, which are more challenging to manage without direct, in-person feedback. Dogs may struggle to understand why they should wait, especially when excited about what’s coming next. To teach “Wait” successfully online, focus on clear verbal cues and consistent practice, starting with short waits and gradually increasing the difficulty as your dog improves.
7. The “Quiet” Command: Controlling Barking from a Distance
Teaching a dog to stop barking on command with “Quiet” is one of the most challenging tasks in online dog training. Barking is a natural behaviour for dogs, and getting them to stop requires precise timing and immediate reinforcement. In an online setting, it’s harder to intervene when your dog starts barking, which can make the command less effective. Additionally, dogs may bark out of frustration or confusion during virtual training sessions. To teach “Quiet” online, try using a combination of verbal cues and distractions, such as a favourite toy or treat, to redirect your dog’s attention away from whatever is triggering the barking.
Conclusion: Overcoming the Challenges of Online Dog Training
Online dog training offers many benefits, including convenience and flexibility, but it also has unique challenges. Commands like “Stay,” “Leave It,” “Heel,” “Come,” “Drop It,” “Wait,” and “Quiet” can be particularly difficult to teach without the physical presence of a trainer. However, these challenges can be overcome with patience, consistency, and creative problem-solving.
You can teach your dog even the most challenging commands online by breaking down commands into smaller steps, using high-value rewards, and practicing in controlled environments. Remember, the key to success in online dog training is not just teaching your dog the commands but also building a strong, trusting relationship that makes learning enjoyable for both of you. With the right approach, you can help your dog become well-behaved and responsive, no matter where your training occurs.