09/18/2025
โจProofing = Real-Life Reliabilityโจ
Your pup might know โstayโ in your living roomโฆ but can they hold it when the doorbell rings, a squirrel sprints by ๐ฟ๏ธ๐พor when another dog walks by? ๐พ
Hereโs how to start proofing at home so your training sticks anywhere:
1๏ธโฃ Home Base: Practice the command inside where itโs quiet (Stay, Leave It, Place). Reward every success.
2๏ธโฃ Change Rooms: Try the same command in different rooms, on different surfaces (tile, carpet, mat) so they learn itโs not โlocation-based.โ
3๏ธโฃ Mild Distractions: Drop a toy, walk around the room, or lightly knock on the tableโmark and reward when they stay focused.
4๏ธโฃ Backyard Practice: Move outsideโadd sounds, smells, and distance. Keep sessions short and fun.
5๏ธโฃ Controlled Real-Life Variables: Once theyโre solid, invite a calm friend or neighbor, or practice during busier times of day.
๐กRemember: always set them up for success, keep sessions short, and celebrate wins with treats + BIG praise. ๐
Proofing builds trust, safety, and the confidence to take your training anywhere. ๐๐ถ
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