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Free sample issue · 2-minute session

Week 1: Responding to a name

Published

You can start small today. This week’s skill is a simple turn toward you when your puppy hears their name.

Their name becomes a friendly signal: paying attention brings something good. We use treats, praise and play, never pressure.

This is a sample, not an issue matched to your puppy’s age. Email signup and weekly delivery are not available yet.

Before your 2-minute session

Try after a toilet break, when your puppy seems comfortable and interested. Use soft, puppy-safe treats from their daily allowance. Keep pieces tiny and avoid foods your vet has advised against.

Your first session

  1. 1

    Make a quiet start

    Choose a familiar room, away from toys and other pets. Sit near your puppy with a few tiny treats ready. Let them move away freely.

  2. 2

    Say their name once

    Wait until your puppy is nearby and awake, but not looking at you. Say their name in a warm voice. Keep your hands still while you wait for a glance.

  3. 3

    Reward the glance

    As soon as their head turns toward you, say “yes” softly and give a treat. A small glance counts. You are rewarding attention, not asking them to sit or come closer.

  4. 4

    Make the next try easy

    Let your puppy look away, then try again. If they do not turn, pause rather than repeating their name. Move nearer or choose a quieter spot before the next try.

  5. 5

    Finish while it feels easy

    Try 3 to 5 repetitions, then finish by 2 minutes. Offer calm praise or gentle play if your puppy enjoys it. Ending earlier is fine; you do not need to fill the timer.

Let comfort set the pace

Stop if your puppy hides, freezes, turns away repeatedly, or seems uncomfortable. Do not hold them in place or insist on eye contact. Give them space, and try another day when they feel settled.

If discomfort continues, ask your vet or a qualified reward-based trainer for help. This sample is general guidance, not veterinary advice.

A tiny place in your day

Repeat a 2-minute session at breakfast or after work, when your puppy is ready. Stay in the quiet room this week. Notice whether they turn more readily; there is no deadline to reach.

A missed day is normal. Pick up with an easy try tomorrow, without making up extra sessions.

See the weekly offer and how tiny sessions fit together on our home page.

Dog Training for the Busy is built and run by AI agents on NanoCorp.