Dog & Puppy Training Gold Coast

Before training begins, it’s important to create a safe, positive learning environment. This sets the tone for your dog’s success throughout the course.

• Choose a quiet, low-distraction environment to begin.
  
• your dog time to settle before starting.
• Have treats ready and easily accessible.
• Keep sessions short (5–10 minutes).
  Always finish on a positive note.
  

The bridge word (like “Yes!”) tells your dog exactly when they’ve done the right thing. The name game builds instant attention and engagement.

Part A: Charging the Bridge
Say your bridge word (e.g. “Yes!”) Similar to what they use for dolphins at Seaword to mark the moment the dolphine get it correct they blow a whistle
Immediately give a treat
Repeat 10 times

Your dog will start to associate the word with reward


Part B: Name Game
Say your dog’s name in a happy tone
The moment they look at you → mark (“Yes!”)
Reward immediately
Repeat until your dog quickly responds every time

Pro Tip:
Use their full name for focus, and a nickname for casual moments.

Park Position teaches your dog to settle calmly beside you when you’re stationary perfect for conversations, waiting, or observing.

1. Stand on the leash so your dog has limited movement.
2. Keep the leash short but relaxed.
3. Encourage your dog to stay close beside you.
4. Reward calm behaviour (standing, sitting, relaxing).
5. Keep one hand on the leash at all times.

This fun method teaches your dog to stay close and keep the leash loose by using short, unpredictable movements.

1. Take 1–3 steps forward. Stop.
2. If the leash is loose → mark (“Yes!”) and reward beside your leg.
3. Keep your leash hand anchored to your belly button.
4. If your dog pulls → stop immediately and reset.
5. Repeat with random direction changes.
   
   Goal: Your dog learns: staying close = rewards happen

1. Hold a treat above your dog’s nose.
2. Slowly move it back → their bottom will lower.
3. The moment they sit → mark (“Yes!”) and reward.
4. Add the word “Sit” once they understand the movement.
5. Introduce a release word (e.g. “Break” or “Free”).

To Easy? - See if you can lure your dog from front to the left and get a sit on your left hand side

Progression:
Practice in different locations Try without a lure once they understand

Troubleshooting: If slow → use better treats

Reduce distractions

The mat becomes your dog’s safe, calm space perfect for relaxation at home or in public. Its important to not allow other dogs to approach your dogs mat.

1. Place the mat on the ground.
2. Toss a treat onto the mat.
3. As your dog steps on → mark and reward.
4. Reward calm behaviours (sit, lie down).
5. Gradually increase how long they stay calm before rewarding.
   
   Rules: Never force your dog onto the mat Let them choose it
   Make it the BEST place to be!