04/24/2026
Turn up those rainy days to 11!!!!
Rainy days don’t have to mean a day off from training. In fact, some of the most productive sessions happen when you’re forced to stay indoors and focus on the fundamentals.
Here are a few ways to keep the momentum going when the weather isn’t cooperating:
Master the "Indoor Essentials"
Small spaces are perfect for sharpening precision. Use a hallway or living room to practice:
• The "Place" Command: Increase the duration and add distractions (like tossing a toy nearby) while they stay on their bed.
• Polished Heel: Practice "with me" walking through doorways or around furniture to build focus in tight quarters.
• Impulse Control: Work on a rock-solid "Leave It" with high-value treats or household objects.
Mental Stimulation = Physical Exhaustion
Mental work can be just as tiring as a long walk. If your dog is high-energy, try:
• Scent Work: Hide treats around a room and let them "find it." Using their nose is a massive caloric and mental burn.
• New Trick Challenges: Spend 15 minutes teaching a complex "for fun" trick like spinning, backing up, or weaving through your legs.
• Enrichment Games: Use puzzle feeders or rolled-up towels with kibble inside to make mealtime a brain-teaser.
The "Rainy Day" Socialization
If you’re feeling adventurous, head to a pet-friendly indoor retail space. Practicing "Sit" and "Stay" in a busy store with new smells and sounds is elite-level distraction training that you can't easily replicate in a quiet backyard.
Pro Tip: If you do go outside, keep sessions short and upbeat. If your dog learns that they still have to listen even when their paws are wet, you’re building a much more reliable companion!