Are you looking for a way to build a stronger, more respectful bond with your dog? Dr. Sophia Yin’s Learn to Earn Program is a proven, reward-based training method that can help you develop leadership skills and teach your dog patience, manners, and emotional regulation.

The Foundation: Say Please by Automatically Sitting

Imagine transforming everyday interactions with your dog into opportunities for growth and connection. The core of the Learn to Earn Program is the “Say Please by Sitting” method. Here, your dog learns to sit politely for everything they want, whether it’s treats, petting, or playtime. This simple yet powerful technique turns everyday moments into training sessions, teaching your dog impulse control and encouraging them to look to you for guidance.

Why It Works

This approach is more than just a training trick; it’s a way to establish a leadership dynamic that fosters trust and respect. By consistently rewarding your dog for sitting, you’re teaching them that good things come from calm, polite behavior. This not only helps with impulse control but also strengthens the bond between you and your dog.

Key Exercises to Get You Started

• Earn Meals Through Training: Ditch the free-feeding and turn mealtime into a training opportunity. Use your dog’s meal kibble as rewards throughout the day. This keeps your dog engaged and makes every interaction a chance to learn.
• Say Please by Sitting: Teach your dog to sit automatically for anything they want. This includes meals, treats, attention, playtime, and even going outside. By doing so, sitting becomes a polite way for your dog to ask for things, reinforcing good manners and patience.
• Leave-It Exercise: This exercise is crucial for teaching your dog self-control. Start by dropping a treat and blocking access until your dog sits and looks at you. Once they’ve mastered this, give them permission to take the treat. This helps your dog understand that waiting and following rules leads to rewards.

As your dog becomes more confident, introduce new challenges. Apply the “Say Please by Sitting” and “Leave-It” exercises in various scenarios like doorways, when putting on the leash, and during play. This gradual increase in difficulty helps solidify good behaviours in different contexts.

Tethering for Focus and Training

In the early stages, keep your dog tethered to you within the home. This helps prevent unwanted behaviours and allows for constant supervision and interaction. It’s a great way to ensure your dog is always learning and staying focused.

Benefits of the Learn to Earn Program

• Improved Communication: This program enhances the communication and understanding between you and your dog, making your interactions more meaningful.
• Self-Control and Polite Behaviour: By teaching your dog to sit politely and wait for rewards, you’re fostering self-control and good manners.
• Stronger Bond: The positive reinforcement and leadership aspects of the program strengthen the human-canine bond, creating a more loving and respectful relationship.

Implementing the Program

• Consistency Is Key: Consistency is the backbone of the Learn to Earn Program. Apply these principles during all interactions with your dog. Consistent application turns desired behaviours into lasting habits.
• Use Resources Wisely: Leverage all resources—food, play, attention—as rewards to reinforce good behaviour. By managing these resources correctly, you can incentivize your dog to behave well in various situations.
• Patience and Persistence: Remember, every dog learns at their own pace. Some may pick up the exercises quickly, while others may take more time. Stay patient and persistent, and you’ll see the benefits of the program unfold.

Enjoy the Journey

The Learn to Earn Program is not just about training your dog; it’s about creating a structured yet loving environment where your dog understands expectations and looks to you for leadership. Every interaction is a training opportunity, so be mindful of what behaviours you’re reinforcing.

As you embark on this journey with your dog, remember to enjoy the process. Training is an opportunity to strengthen your bond and create a more harmonious home. With patience, persistence, and the right techniques, you and your dog can achieve a deeper, more respectful relationship.