Fall has arrived
November ushers in cozy sweaters, crunchy leaves, and early darkness—but it also brings unique training opportunities (and challenges) for you and your dog. Whether you’re navigating new distractions or reinforcing daily habits, here are some pointers to help you and your pup make the most of this transitional month.
1. Build Routine Around Shorter Days
As daylight hours shrink, consistency becomes extra valuable. Maintain your walk times as much as possible, but also be flexible: plan indoor training sessions or enrichment when the weather or timing doesn’t cooperate.
Morning cue refreshers: Spend just 5 minutes on basic cues (sit, down, stay) inside—this keeps them sharp even when it’s too dark or cold outside.
Evening wind-downs: Use calm behavior cues (settle, mat time) before the end of the day to help your dog decompress before sleep.
2. Leaf & Trail Desensitization
November leaves blowing, rustling piles underfoot, and crisp wind gusts can all pose novel stimuli to your dog.
Walk your dog near leaf piles and let them explore—reward calm investigation.
Practice cueing “leave it” or “easy” when gusts kick leaves into motion.
If your dog’s startled by brush or wind noises, pair those sounds with high-value treats gradually, building confidence.
3. Use Enrichment to Replace Lost Outdoor Time
If rain, cold, or early nightfall cuts into your usual outings:
Rotate puzzle toys, snuffle mats, food hides, and scent work games.
Hide treats around the house or in safe, dog-friendly nooks to encourage “search mode.”
Short indoor training bursts (5–10 minutes) can still provide mental stimulation and strengthen your bond.
4. Prepare for Holiday Distractions Early
November leads into busy holiday weeks. Even if your celebrations are weeks away, your dog’s brain will feel it:
Practice desensitization to doorbells, gift wrap noises, or new seasonal scents—play recordings at low volume and reward calm behavior.
Use movement around your dog—people walking past or shifting nearby objects—and require a polite settle or down rather than attention-seeking.
Reinforce a default behavior (e.g. “go to mat”) so your dog has a safe, known spot to retreat to during holiday commotion.
5. Reinforce Recall in Low-Light Conditions
Earlier evenings and overcast days reduce visibility. It’s a perfect time to polish recall in dimmer environments:
Use a bright leash or check cord in early evening walks.
Start recall drills indoors or in enclosed spaces under subdued lighting, then move outside as your dog succeeds.
Always reward generously—make coming to you worth it, no matter the distractions.
6. Cozy Bonding Through Grooming & Handling Practice
As you spend more indoor time together, use it to strengthen touch, handling, and comfort with grooming tools:
Gently touch paws, ears, tail, coat, and practice softly using brushes or towels.
Turn grooming into a routine with treats, praises, and breaks—make it predictable.
Reinforce a calm “stay” while you move around them or handle equipment so they learn composure.
Final Thoughts
November is a beautiful month of transition—so take advantage of the shifting seasons to deepen communication and trust with your dog. Keep training small, consistent, and fun. Even 5 minutes a day can prevent regression and build up excitement for upcoming winter training. Embrace cozy, embrace patience—and let your dog show you how to roll in a leaf pile (or at least resist freaking out at one).
