How much can you really train your dog?

This is a question I get asked all the time: How long? How often?
It sounds like it should be simple to answer, right?

Many people ask me: What kind of training do you recommend for a 4-year-old obedience dog, or for a dog training IGP?
Well—the truth is, to give a proper answer I need to know a lot more about the dog. A single training plan won’t fit everyone based on such limited information.

The fact is, training and what works for each body is incredibly individual. However, there are some factors that can help guide you:

1. How fit is your dog already?
   A dog that already has good fitness and training experience can be trained at a higher level than one that is completely untrained. Building a basic level of fitness takes about 3 months (yes, you read that right). Once this foundation is in place, you can gradually increase the demands within the type of training the dog has been conditioned for. If the basic fitness is already there—you can progress more quickly.
2. Type of training
   Many dogs mainly go for walks, which mostly builds endurance. But it’s wise to train with variety—adding strength training (a lot can be done outdoors if you plan for it) and body control (coordination and balance).
   Dogs should be trained mostly in the activity they will perform the most. For example, a sled dog needs to train pulling, a hunting dog needs to train moving over terrain at certain distances. But—it’s also important to include days with other types of training, because the body needs all three: endurance, strength, and coordination.
   Think about how essential body control is, for instance. Variety is key.
   Strength training also builds endurance, and endurance training helps with strength—but usually not enough on its own. That’s why a good training plan should include different types of sessions.
3. Conformation (exterior)
   Many dogs struggle with conformational challenges that affect movement, loading of joints and muscles, and how they develop. To prevent a poor exterior from causing more problems than necessary, training should be adapted to avoid overloading weaker areas while strengthening them in a safe way.
   To do this properly, you need to understand how training relates to the dog’s exterior.
4. Equipment
   To build muscles correctly and allow the dog to move without resistance or discomfort, it’s crucial to use equipment that doesn’t rub, restrict, cause discomfort, or fit poorly. Here you may need help from an expert—such as when choosing a harness—or in some cases, learning more yourself.
5. Nails
   I just can’t leave out the nails. Nails that function properly, allowing the paw to roll over at the right phase of the stride and in the right direction, are essential. Nails that are too long affect biomechanics, angles, and axes—and this makes a huge difference in developing a strong, functional body.
6. Aches or injuries
   Have you heard the saying “once injured, always injured”? In many cases, it’s true. If your dog has an issue or has had an injury, this must be taken into account in training. The goal is to strengthen the area without overloading it. Another key question is: Why did the problem occur in the first place? If the answer lies in one of the factors mentioned here—training style, equipment, nails, or something else—then the plan needs to be adjusted to prevent future issues.
7. Age
   There’s a big difference between training a young dog, one in its prime, or a senior. For young dogs, there are certain precautions to take (but don’t “park” your young dog until you’re ready to train more systematically!). A dog in its prime can build strength, balance, and versatility with the right training. And for an older dog, training should be adjusted to help maintain strength and keep the body functioning well, so your dog can enjoy life and stay healthy for as long as possible.

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Have a great day!

Line and Team NHT