How to Train Military Dogs

Take a patient, positive approach that has no timetable

Build a positive relationship with the dog right from the start.

Schedule consistent training sessions in a low-distraction location.

Rely entirely on positive reinforcement to instruct the dog

Teach instructional commands like “sit” with clear verbal and hand cues

Reward success immediately, consistently, and reasonably.

Teach the dog not to do things by ignoring—not punishing—the dog

Identify, adapt to, and work around the dog’s weaknesses

Reinforce existing training while adding new training