I don't think I was exaggerating when I mentioned to someone that we've had about six months of winter, something I never want to think about again. But, and I say this with fingers crossed, I think we've past the worst of the worst, and we're on our way, finally, to spring.
That all being said, with the warmer weather upon us, it's time to get those dogs out and start practicing your obedience in parks, on walks, and anywhere that you take your dog. Dogs are contextual learners, meaning, for example, that you can teach them sit inside the comfort of your own living room, but the command becomes something new and different when you start to teach it on the walk, or at the park. Dogs need to learn, and be taught, that obedience is required everywhere, under every circumstance, and this can not be done without practicing in all circumstances so that the dogs become fluid in their knowledge and behaviour.
Keep in mind, when training and practicing, that the addition of distraction sometimes means that you have to take a step or two back to regain control, and there is nothing wrong with that. Taking a step or two back in training allows your dog to be successful under the new distraction or in the new environment, therefore facilitating learning, and making your job as a trainer far less frustrating. The more successful repetitions that you have, the higher the chance that your dog will continue the correct performance.
So if you want your dog to behave on the walk, at the park, or at your neighbours yearly BBQ, you need to take the time and practice in those situations so that your dog understands what is expected of him/her, and you can help them achieve this understanding in a fair and consistent way.
Have fun and enjoy the coming warm weather.
