🐾 One Rep a Day Makes You Go a Long Way

When it comes to dog training, many dog guardians picture long, formal sessions full of repetition and commands. But what if we told you that just one rep a day—yes, one!—can do more for your relationship with your dog than an hour of rigid drills?

One rep of ‘Middle’—building focus, trust, and a whole lot of joy!

💡 Why Little and Often Works

Dogs, much like us, learn best in short, engaging bursts. A quick moment of focus, a playful cue, or even a few seconds of calm behaviour reinforced at the right time can make a lasting impression.

In fact, research shows that short training sessions are more effective for long-term learning than fewer, longer ones. A study by Demant et al. (2011) found that short, positive training sessions improved learning speed and retention in dogs, especially when sessions were spaced out over time. This is supported by broader learning science which confirms that spaced repetition (practicing little and often) enhances memory and understanding across species, including humans.

By training in small, consistent doses, we avoid overwhelming our dogs or setting them up for frustration. It keeps learning fun, fresh, and frustration-free.

Imagine it like brushing your teeth: it’s better to do it every day for a couple of minutes than try to make up for a week in one go. The same applies to your dog’s training.

🐶 Training = Playing = Bonding

At CDTA, we talk a lot about happy training—and we mean it. Training shouldn’t feel like a chore for either you or your dog. When done well, it’s indistinguishable from play. It becomes a moment to connect, laugh, and build trust.

Whether it’s a quick game of tug, a simple “touch” cue before dinner, or reinforcing calm behaviour on a walk, these micro-sessions create a rhythm your dog can count on. They know you’ll communicate clearly, reward generously, and treat them like a partner in the process

🧠 Motivation Matters

A key part of happy, effective training is knowing what motivates your dog. For some, it’s a bit of cheese. For others, it’s a squeaky toy or the chance to go sniff that hedge. Whatever it is, use it! The Premack Principle (put simply: “do this, then you get to do that”) is a powerful tool that turns real-life situations into learning opportunities.

Letting your dog do something they want—after they do something you want—isn’t just smart training. It’s good communication, and it teaches your dog that listening to you opens doors to fun, freedom, and good things.

🕔 A 5-Minute Drill That Builds It All

You don’t need a timer or a checklist, but if you’re wondering what a short, well-rounded session might look like, here’s a quick and joyful example:

1. Start with a game – A few seconds of tug-of-war to kick things off and build engagement.

2. Add movement – Try an active behaviour like a recall game, “spin,” or “catch me” chase to get the body and brain working together.

3. Introduce a new skill – Something simple and fun, like learning “middle” (your dog comes between your legs).

4. Reinforce an existing cue with challenge – Like a hand touch with added distraction (can your dog touch your hand while you’re wiggling it or holding a toy?).

5. Practice calm – Ask for a short “stay” or calm position to bring the energy down.

6. Finish with a nose work game – Hide a treat or toy nearby and let your dog sniff it out. It’s relaxing, rewarding, and taps into their natural instincts.

That’s it — five minutes of joyful learning, variety, and connection.

🤝 It’s About Trust

Every time you train, you’re not just teaching behaviours—you’re strengthening your bond. When your dog sees you as someone who is fair, fun, and clear, they’ll be more eager to learn and more confident navigating the world with you.

So don’t worry if you didn’t fit in a “full” session today. That one rep before breakfast, that one recall in the garden, that quick “sit” before the lead goes on… they all count.

Because in the end, consistency beats intensity—and connection beats perfection and remember One Rep a Day Makes You Go a Long Way