How to Keep Training Fun for Your Dog This Summer
Montana summers are full of sunshine, fresh air, and opportunities for outdoor adventures with your dog. But when the days get hotter and schedules get busier, training can easily fall by the wayside. The good news? Training doesn’t have to be boring—or feel like a chore. In fact, the more fun it is, the more your dog will want to learn.
Here’s how to keep training fresh, exciting, and rewarding for both of you this summer.
1. Keep It Short and Sweet
In the summer heat, long training sessions can wear out both you and your dog—fast. Instead, aim for 5–10 minute sessions a few times a day. Dogs (especially young or excitable ones) tend to focus better with shorter bursts of activity.
⏱️ Pro Tip: Train during the cooler hours of the morning or evening, and always have water on hand!
2. Use Toys and Games as Rewards
Not every dog is food-motivated—and even if they are, sometimes a squeaky ball or a tug session is a bigger motivator. Using toys as part of training makes it feel more like play and strengthens your bond in the process.
Try this:
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Reward “come” with a short game of fetch
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Practice “drop it” and “off” with favorite toys
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Use tug to reinforce focus and control
🎾 Let your dog “earn” play through listening!
3. Take Training Outside
Summer is perfect for practicing obedience in new environments with natural distractions—like birds, squirrels, or other dogs. Work on leash skills, focus, or place training in your yard, on the porch, or at a nearby park.
☀️ Remember:
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Avoid hot pavement (check with the back of your hand)
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Bring high-value treats for tough distractions
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Keep sessions light and praise-heavy!
4. Try Fun Training Challenges
Break up your routine with mini games and interactive training challenges that also build impulse control and engagement.
Here are a few to try:
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Backyard Obstacle Course: Use cones, tunnels, or broomsticks to create a mini agility circuit.
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Scent Games: Hide treats or favorite toys and let your dog sniff them out.
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Name That Toy: Teach your dog to identify toys by name and “find” them.
🐶 These mentally stimulating games keep your dog focused and fulfilled—especially on days when long walks aren’t possible.
5. Keep the Bond Strong
Training isn’t just about rules—it’s about relationship. The more fun and positive you make it, the more your dog will want to work with you. Summer is the perfect time to build that bond through shared activities, outdoor fun, and consistent structure.
Training = teamwork. And the more your dog enjoys it, the better your results will be.
Need Help Creating a Fun Training Plan?
Whether your dog is just getting started or you’re looking to sharpen existing skills, we can help. Our training programs at Off Leash K9 Training Missoula are tailored to fit your goals, lifestyle, and your dog’s unique personality.
📞 Call or text us at (406) 946-3037 or fill out the form below to ask about our summer availability.
Let’s make this your dog’s most confident, well-behaved, and fun-filled summer yet! 🐾
