A Guide For Training Your dog

Top Tips for Training Your Dog: Building Confidence, Obedience & a Strong Bond

Training your dog is one of the most rewarding things you can do—not just for them, but for you too. Whether you're raising a puppy or working with an older dog, consistent, positive training builds confidence, strengthens your bond, and creates a safe and happy home. At Birstwith Barkyard, we integrate effective training techniques into our dog daycareprogram in Harrogate, ensuring every dog leaves with a little more know-how and a lot more tail wags.

Here are our top tips to help you on your dog training journey:

1. Exposure to All Environments

A well-trained dog starts with a confident dog, and confidence is built through exposure. Puppies especially need to experience a wide range of environments—cars, parks, shops, people of all ages, other dogs, and even different floor surfaces. This helps reduce fear-based behaviour later in life.

At our doggy daycare in Birstwith near Harrogate, dogs are gradually introduced to different sights, sounds, and smells in a safe, controlled environment. Exposure training lays the foundation for everything else—they can’t focus on learning if they’re too anxious to sit still!

2. Socialisation is Key

Socialisation goes hand in hand with exposure. Dogs are social creatures, and learning how to interact with other dogs and people is critical. Poorly socialised dogs may react fearfully or aggressively, but with regular interaction, they learn body language, boundaries, and how to play safely.

This is why socialisation is at the heart of what we do at Birstwith Barkyard. Our dog daycare groups are carefully curated, allowing your dog to make friends while learning polite, safe behaviours. For puppies, this social time is especially important—it sets the tone for life.

3. Mastering the Basics: Sit, Down, and Stay

Before you dive into advanced commands, make sure your dog understands the basics. Simple commands like sit, down, and stay help establish structure, teach impulse control, and lay the groundwork for more complex training. These are the building blocks of a reliable, well-mannered dog.

When training at home or during your dog’s time at daycare, consistency is key. Use short, positive sessions and always reward good behaviour. Even just 10 minutes a day can make a huge difference!

4. The “Place” Command – Why It’s a Game-Changer

The “Place” command teaches your dog to go to a specific spot (like a bed or mat) and stay there until released. It’s more than just a cute trick—it's a powerful tool for managing energy and anxiety.

At Birstwith Barkyard, we use the place command to help dogs settle during downtime. Whether you’re answering the door, eating dinner, or hosting guests, having a calm dog who knows their place makes life easier and more peaceful. It’s especially helpful in busy homes or when training puppies who are still learning impulse control.

5. Recall – The Life-Saving Skill Every Dog Needs

Recall—the ability to come back to you when called—is one of the most important commands you can teach. A reliable recall can literally save your dog’s life, especially if they get loose near roads or unfamiliar environments.

Start with short distances indoors, then gradually move outdoors with a long lead. Always make coming back to you the most exciting thing in the world—use praise, treats, or toys.

We practice recall regularly at our doggy daycare sessions in Harrogate, giving dogs real-world opportunities to improve this vital skill in a safe space.

Final Thoughts

Dog training isn’t just about obedience—it’s about communication, safety, and trust. Whether your dog is attending daycare in Birstwith, joining a training session with HGK9CO, or learning at home, these core tips will help you raise a happy, balanced pup.

Looking for help with dog training or want to reinforce these skills during dog daycare? Get in touch with Birstwith Barkyard today—we’re proud to support pups across Harrogate with structured care, fun, and positive reinforcement.