Last week, we talked about building your dog’s habit to play “Touch!” This week, it’s your turn to build a habit with the Commercial Break Dog Training Challenge.
You already know that repetition is the best way to train a dog. But pairing that repetition with a specific trigger is how you cement the habit into your own muscle memory, allowing it to grow seamlessly into your daily routine.
Triggering Your Behavior
When 2-Minute Trainer first started, we were all adjusting to having powerful timers right in our pockets. Smartphones meant we could play training games anytime, anywhere, with very little prep.
Now? It’s even easier.
Whenever we watch TV or stream media, we are periodically interrupted by ads with handy-dandy countdown timers in the corner. Instead of reaching for your phone to scroll social media, you can use that countdown as your trigger for a short burst of training. We call it the Commercial Break Challenge.
Prep Your Favorite Spaces
To make this work, you need to eliminate any friction. If you have to walk to the pantry for treats every time an ad comes on, the habit will die. Instead, preload your relaxation spaces.
Every room in your house can—and should—be a place where you play training games. Here is how to prep:
- Grab some stash jars: Get a few small, airtight containers with lids.
- Make a “Training Trail Mix”: Mix up a big batch of dry treats. Use a variety ranging from your dog’s regular kibble and cereal “O’s” to high-value rewards like popcorn, freeze-dried chicken hearts, and dehydrated beef liver.
- Hide the stash: Scatter these loaded containers around the house—by the couch, on your nightstand, or near your desk.
By including your dog’s absolute favorites in the mix, they will always stay eager to see what prize they win next.
Perfect Timing
The next time an ad timer pops up on the screen, reach for the container.
It doesn’t have to happen during every commercial, or even at the same time every day. But we guarantee that after just two or three ad-break training games, your dog will get excited the moment your hand moves toward that jar.
Eventually, your dog might even recognize the sudden change in volume (seriously, why are commercials so loud?) and jump up ready to work before you even move.
The Best Part: It takes so little time and effort to bolster the bond with your dog, and it makes them incredibly happy. When the ads roll, everybody wins with the Commercial Break Dog Training Challenge.