So, you’ve heard of the 75 Hard Challenge, right? Well, get ready to meet the 60-Day Dog Challenge—designed just for you and your pup! In just two months, you’ll see improved behavior, stronger obedience, and a tighter bond. Let’s dive into this step-by-step guide to build good habits and create a rock-solid relationship with your furry friend!
The 60-Day Training Protocol for Perfect Pups
1. Kennel Training
• Nighttime Routine: Your pup deserves a cozy, safe place to sleep each night—cue the kennel!
• Unsupervised Time: No free roaming! When you’re busy, the kennel’s their chill zone. It keeps boundaries clear and prevents unwanted behavior. Remember, no doggie doors or unsupervised yard time!
2. Structured Feeding Fun
• Wait for Food: Make mealtime a training opportunity. Teach your dog to wait for a release command before digging in.
• Threshold Training: Reinforce discipline by pausing at doorways, kennel exits, and more. It’s all about that “wait-for-it” mentality!
3. Place & Down: The Chill Commands
• Set Up Boundaries: Practice “Place” or “Down” where your dog can see you but isn’t right next to you. This builds patience and a bit of independence.
• No Furniture Zone: Couch potato days are on hold! Keep your pup off the furniture to reinforce household rules and respect.
4. Daily Command Practice
• Sit, Down, Come, Place, Heel, Break, Out, Good, No, Off: This challenge is packed with essentials! Make a few minutes each day for practice. Start with treats, then gradually phase them out. Be the treat! Hype your dog up, but don’t overdo it—stop before they’re worn out.
5. Play & Bonding Time
• Play Like a Pro: Tug, chase, flirt pole—keep it fresh! Don’t leave all the toys out; let chew toys be the go-to, but save the fun toys for quality time together. You’ll build a special connection when you’re the source of all the fun.
6. Consistency is Key
• Follow Through: Keep up with these commands every day. Stick to it on walks, at home, everywhere! Consistency builds a well-mannered pup.
• Structured Routine: As your dog gets more reliable, ease up a bit—but just a little. The steady routine will lay down the groundwork for lasting behavior.
• Progress Check-In: Record a video of your dog following commands (without treats!) at the start and end of the challenge. The “before and after” will show just how far you’ve come.
Embrace the Journey!
At the end of these 60 days, you’ll have built a relationship based on trust, respect, and love. Celebrate your wins, savor the moments, and create lasting memories with your pup. Got questions? Need extra guidance? Reach out—I’m here to help. Let’s make this challenge fun, rewarding, and a game-changer for you and your dog!