Easy Ways to Train All Day Without Setting Aside Extra Time
Many people think dog training requires long practice sessions where you stop your life and “work the dog.”
That’s not realistic—and it’s not necessary.
The best training happens throughout your normal day, using simple cues, clear follow-through, and repetition during moments that already exist.
When training becomes part of your routine, dogs learn faster and listening feels natural.
The Everyday Cues I Use
These are the words I use all day, every day, with my own dogs and with clients’ dogs:
Dog’s name
Come
Sit
Down
Wait
Drop it
Go in
Ok go
Let’s go
I also use NO, followed by an appropriate consequence, when a dog makes the wrong choice.
These cues are not tricks.
They are daily communication tools.
Built-In Training Moments You’re Already Doing
Someone Knocks? Ask for “Go In”
Every time someone knocks on the door—or you open the door for a package—ask your dog to “go in” the crate.
No extra time.
No extra setup.
Just repetition during a moment that actually matters.
Mealtime = Training Time
Before placing the food bowl down:
Ask your dog to sit
Then wait
Release her to eat with ok go
This builds patience and listening without adding anything to your schedule.
Playtime Is Training Too
Before you start play, ask your dog to sit.
During play, occasionally ask her to drop it, then resume playing.
This teaches your dog that listening does not end the fun.
Sitting Down? Practice The Mat Game
Any time you sit down:
At your desk
At the table
On the couch
Practice The Mat Game.
This teaches your dog how to settle calmly while you live your life.
Walks Are Full of Training Opportunities
Before the walk:
Ask your dog to sit before putting the leash on
Ask her to wait while you open the door
Release her with ok go
During the walk:
Change direction and say let’s go
Call her with come if she’s ahead or sniffing too long
When someone passes, move aside and ask for sit and wait
Release with ok go when it’s clear
If she picks something up, say drop it
No drills.
No stopping your walk.
Just communication.
An Important Reminder About Cues
This part matters.
YOU must know how to teach these cues, how to use them, and what to do if your dog doesn’t listen.
Cues are not magic words.
They don’t make dogs listen on their own.
Listening is built through the relationship you have with your dog.
Ask yourself:
Are you consistent?
Do you follow through when your dog ignores you?
Are your expectations fair?
Do you meet your dog’s needs and train in a way that builds trust?
Dogs listen best to people who are clear, calm, and predictable.
Train Smart, Not Long
You don’t need long or complicated training sessions.
You need:
Clear cues
Daily repetition
Real-life practice
Consistent follow-through
When training fits into your life, dogs learn faster—and listening becomes a habit.
Train smart and easy, not long and complicated.
