You’ve just finished work. The kettle’s boiling, your back’s aching, and your dog is practically vibrating with energy. You love them to bits, but the idea of a two-hour walk or long training session just to get them to settle? Not today.
Here’s the good news: you don’t need to spend hours every day training to have a well-behaved, happy dog. In fact, shorter, more intentional moments can often work better for both of you, especially if you’re living with chronic illness, managing limited mobility, or simply navigating a life that’s bursting at the seams.
It’s Not About More Time, It’s About Better Time
Training doesn’t have to be formal or exhausting. Dogs learn through repetition and consistency, not just big training events. A few minutes here and there, woven into your daily routine, can lead to huge progress over time.
Many owners put pressure on themselves to “do more” and end up feeling like they’re failing their dog. But the truth is, you can achieve great results by focusing on what’s realistic for you. Spending one hour a week in isolation won’t solve issues, but adjusting your daily patterns, using energy wisely, and remembering that your dog is always learning will.
Three Ways to Train Without Overwhelm
1. Micro-sessions
Instead of aiming for a long training block, think in 2 to 5-minute bursts. A short “settle” on the mat can fit between making tea or waiting for the oven timer. These bite-sized moments add up fast.
2. Life as training
Turn everyday moments into training opportunities. Ask for self-control before putting the lead on, practise “wait” while the kettle boils, or reward calmness when you answer the door. This reinforces manners without adding extra to your to-do list.
3. Enrichment over exhaustion
Enrichment doesn’t have to be expensive. Think about your dog’s breed traits. Spaniels love hunting; use “find it” games on walks. Herding breeds enjoy impulse control challenges that channel focus onto the right things. Hounds love to track, drag a scent along the ground and let them follow it on cue. Explore what your dog already enjoys and find creative, energy-friendly ways to join in beyond food toys and lick mats.
Small Steps, Big Difference
Your dog doesn’t need perfection; they need connection. The goal isn’t to do everything every day, it’s to keep showing up in small, consistent ways. Whether it’s a three-minute session or a gentle game of “find it” in the lounge, you’re building trust, communication, and understanding.
Progress in dog training is like a snowball – even small pushes, done regularly, gather momentum over time.
A Safe Place to Learn & Share
If you’re living with chronic illness, disability, or just juggling too much life, you’re not alone. I created the Chronic with a Canine Circle, a free, supportive space for dog guardians who want progress without pressure. We share ideas, encouragement, and practical tips for working with your dog in a way that fits your real life.
Join us at thek9personaltrainer.co.uk/chronic-with-a-canine-circle because you and your dog deserve training that works for you, not against you.
By Demi Powell – The K9 Personal Trainer
We hope you enjoyed reading “Dog Training While Leading Busy Lives”. Click here to read more of our articles about dog training and pets.
Author: Demi Powell
Demi Powell is a cat lover and owner and owns Powell’s Pups, an Oswestry-based K9 training business. Demi is a qualified puppy school tutor and is part of the Beastly Thoughts Professional Dog Services (BTPDS) Instructor Team. BTPDS specialise in puppy training and reactive dogs, but offer a whole host of obedience training classes, lectures, webinars and online training hubs and groups.
