Module 6.1
Training Introduction
Video 1:
This module introduces some simple training exercises and games you can start with your puppy. At this stage, training isn’t about expecting perfect behaviour — it’s about building communication, confidence, and a positive learning experience. Short, fun sessions help your puppy learn how to focus, problem-solve, and engage with you. Puppies have very short attention spans, so keeping training light, playful, and rewarding helps them stay motivated and enjoy the process. These early exercises will help lay the foundations for future training while strengthening your relationship with your puppy.
Video 2:
A marker is a clear and consistent signal that tells your puppy the exact moment they have performed the behaviour you want. It acts as a form of communication, helping your puppy understand precisely which action is being rewarded. Common markers include a short word such as “yes” or the sound of a clicker. The marker is given at the exact moment the desired behaviour happens and is always followed by a reward, usually a piece of food.
Because rewards cannot always be delivered at the exact second a behaviour occurs, the marker bridges that gap by capturing the correct moment. This makes learning much clearer for your puppy and helps them understand what behaviour earned the reward. With consistent use, markers make training more precise, improve communication between you and your puppy, and help them learn new behaviours more quickly and confidently.
Video 3:
The three D’s of training are Distance, Duration, and Distraction. These are the three factors that influence how difficult a behaviour is for your puppy. When teaching a new skill, it’s important to keep these elements low at first so your puppy can learn successfully. Distance refers to how far away you are from your puppy when they perform the behaviour. Duration is how long your puppy is asked to maintain the behaviour. Distraction relates to what is happening in the environment around them.
As training progresses, these elements can be gradually increased, but it’s important to only change one D at a time. For example, you might ask your puppy to hold a sit for a little longer (increasing duration) while keeping distance and distractions the same. If all three are increased at once, the exercise can quickly become too difficult and your puppy may struggle. Understanding and adjusting the three D’s helps set puppies up for success and allows training to progress in a clear, achievable way.
Video 4:
When delivering treats to your puppy, it’s important to avoid holding the food above their head, as this can encourage jumping up and overexcitement. Instead, aim to feed the treat directly to your puppy’s mouth, keeping your hand low and just under their chin. This helps promote calm behaviour and prevents your puppy from snapping or lunging towards the food, as they learn that the reward will always be delivered to them in a controlled and consistent way.
