5 Easy Dog Training Goals for a Better Relationship

Building a strong bond with your dog is one of the most rewarding experiences a pet owner can have. And while it might seem daunting, setting a few simple, achievable training goals can make a huge difference in your relationship. Forget complex tricks for now – these five easy goals focus on communication, trust, and everyday harmony. Let's dive in!

1. The "Look at Me" Command

This might sound basic, but teaching your dog to make eye contact on command is a game-changer. It's the foundation for all other training, as it gets your dog's attention and helps them focus on you, even amidst distractions.

Why it helps your relationship: It establishes you as the focal point and helps your dog understand that good things happen when they pay attention to you. It's a clear line of communication.

How to start: Everyday wait til your dog catches your eye, mark it with Yes, say "Look at me." The instant your dog makes eye contact, even for a second, say "Yes!" or "Good!" and give them the treat. Then ask for the Look before they give it. Gradually increase the duration of eye contact before rewarding.

2. The "Wait" At the Door

The threshold time is often the most exciting part of a dog’s day. By asking your dog to "Wait" until you give a release command (like "Let's Go!"), you turn a chaotic moment into a structured exercise.

• Why it helps your relationship: It builds impulse control and mutual respect. Instead of a "run wild" where your dog might knock you out of the way to go outside, it becomes a cooperative moment where they look to you for permission.

• How to start: Have your dog sit in front of an open door. If they move toward it, using a leash stop them from leaving. Repeat until they stay still while you can move in our out of the door. Once they are calm, give your release word. Build up to opening the door with them in the sit!

3. Master a Loose-Leash "Check-In"

You don’t need a perfect competitive "heel" to have a great walk. Instead, set a goal for your dog to voluntarily check in (look back at you) while on a walk.

• Why it helps your relationship: Walks shouldn't just be you being dragged by your best friend. When your dog checks in, they are acknowledging that you are on the walk together. It builds a "team" mentality.

• How to start: Every single time your dog happens to look back at you during a walk, say "Yes!" and give a small treat. Soon, they’ll start doing it more often because they find you more interesting than the fire hydrant.

4. Daily "Hand-Feeding" Bonding

This isn't a command, but a practice. Set a goal to hand-feed at least one of your dog’s meals every day for a week.

• Why it helps your relationship: Hand-feeding builds immense trust, especially for shy or rescue dogs. It reinforces the idea that all good things come from you and helps prevent resource guarding by making your presence near their food a positive experience.

• How to start: Instead of the bowl, sit on the floor and offer small handfuls of kibble. Use this time to practice "Sit," "Touch," or just every time your dog looks at you! (Reinforces the eye contact).

5. The "Relax on a Bed" Goal

In our busy world, we often forget to teach dogs how to do nothing. Training your dog to go to a specific mat or bed and settle down—even for just two minutes—is an essential skill.

• Why it helps your relationship: It reduces stress for both of you. When you’re cooking dinner or have guests over, your dog knows exactly where they belong to be "good." A calm dog is a dog that is easier to live with and enjoy.

• How to start: Place a dog bed or mat down. Reward your dog for stepping on it, then for sitting on it, then for lying down. Keep the treats coming as long as they stay relaxed on the mat.