08/14/2026
This is what the first training session looks like for about 95% of the dogs that come to me. 🐾
It may not look like much is happening, but there’s actually a lot of training going on here.
Right now, I’m not worried about drilling commands. I’m focused on hand feeding, engagement, and building a relationship.
Instead of putting this dog’s food in a bowl, I’m using it to teach them that good things come through me. Hand feeding helps build trust, creates value in the handler, encourages the dog to check in with me, and gives me an opportunity to reward the behaviors I want.
You’ll also notice this dog is offering me a sit without me asking for it. I’m not constantly giving commands—I’m allowing the dog to think, make choices, and figure out what behaviors earn reinforcement. When they voluntarily engage, sit, make eye contact, or choose to stay connected with me, I reward it.
Before I expect a dog to listen to me, I want to give them a reason to WANT to work with me.
This is why I don’t rush the first session. Your dog just arrived in a completely new environment with a new person. Relationship first. Training follows.
This is how I start with about 95% of the dogs that come through my program. Of course, every dog is different, so the approach may change depending on the individual dog, their temperament, behavior, and needs.
Sometimes the sessions that look like we’re doing the “least” are actually laying the foundation for everything that comes next. 🖤🐾
