What Engagement Looks Like!

Engagement is more than your puppy responding to cues, it’s the moment they choose to check in with you despite distractions. In real life, engagement looks like your puppy turning toward you instead of pulling toward a sound, offering eye contact before grabbing something off the ground, or pausing to wait for guidance instead of reacting impulsively. These small moments are powerful because they teach your puppy that you are the source of clarity, safety, and reward. When engagement is strong, obedience becomes easier and less repetitive because your puppy already understands how to listen and respond.

You can build engagement through short, intentional interactions throughout the day. Hand-feeding meals, rewarding calm eye contact, playing simple focus games, and practicing brief training sessions in low-distraction environments all reinforce connection. Rather than rushing into long walks or complex commands, prioritize quality over quantity — a few minutes of meaningful engagement goes much further than an overstimulating outing. Over time, these small practices shape a puppy who is confident, attentive, and emotionally regulated. Engagement isn’t something you train once, it’s something you nurture daily, and it becomes the foundation for a well-balanced family dog.