How to train your puppy… oops, partner 😄

“Do you train husbands and wives too?” It’s a question we occasionally get asked at dog training sessions — usually while one partner smiles and looks at the other. Our standard response is generally: “Yes… but we charge extra.” Everyone laughs — but there is actually a serious point underneath it. A lot of the principles that work well in dog training also work remarkably well in human relationships and communication.

For example, behaviour that receives positive feedback is far more likely to be repeated. “Thank you — that was really thoughtful.” “You handled that beautifully.” Small acknowledgements matter. On the flip side, constant criticism, frustration and conflict often don’t improve behaviour particularly effectively in either species. At CLEAR Dog Training, we often explain that good training is less about punishment and more about clarity, consistency and setting dogs up to succeed. Ironically, that approach tends to work pretty well with humans too. Just perhaps don’t make it too obvious when you suddenly start applying your newly discovered positive reinforcement skills at home… otherwise your partner or children may eventually look at you suspiciously and start going “woof.” 😄