The Art of Lazy Dog Training: Easy Tips for Success
Dog training doesn’t have to be complicated or exhausting. In fact, the best training often happens when you do less, not more. By focusing on subtle, everyday behaviors, you can guide your dog toward better habits with minimal effort. I like to call this lazy dog training—it’s all about working smarter, not harder.
Big B vs. Little b Behaviors
Julianna DeWilliams of JW Dog Training introduced the terms big B behaviors and little b behaviors to help us rethink how we view our dogs’ actions.
Big B behaviors are the obvious ones—things like a perfect sit, a flashy down, or an impressive recall. These are the actions we tend to notice and reward.
But dogs are constantly offering us little b behaviors: standing calmly, sniffing the ground, turning their head, or even letting out a soft sigh (a sign they are relaxing). These subtle actions often go unnoticed, yet they’re the foundation of good behavior.
The secret to lazy dog training? Reinforce those little b behaviors.
How to Reinforce the Little Things (Without Breaking a Sweat)
Reinforcing little b behaviors is easy and doesn’t require a training session or special skills. Simply notice what your dog is doing right in the moment and reward them with something they love—praise, food, play, or even just a kind smile.
Here’s how it can look:
- When your dog keeps all four paws on the floor as you grab the leash, drop a treat at their feet.
- If they choose to chew on a toy instead of barking at the window, give them a gentle “Good dog!”
- When they’re resting quietly on their bed, sneak them a piece of kibble or softly pet them.
Each time you do this, you’re teaching your dog what works—and doing it with almost no effort!
Prevent Problems the Easy Way
Another key to lazy dog training is setting your dog up for success through management. By preventing unwanted behaviors before they start, you can avoid frustration and save energy.
For example:
- Use a baby gate to block off the kitchen and stop counter-surfing before it happens.
- Keep your dog on a leash when greeting guests to prevent jumping or running.
With good management, you spend less time correcting and more time reinforcing what you do want to see.
Why It Works
Reinforcement drives behavior—whether it’s something you like or not. If you pay attention to your dog only when they’re misbehaving, you might unintentionally encourage those behaviors. But when you focus on praising and rewarding the small, quiet moments, your dog learns that calmness and cooperation pay off.
Lazy Dog Training in Action
The next time you’re with your dog, look for a “little b” to reinforce. It might be a moment of stillness, curiosity, or simply choosing to play with their toy instead of your shoes. A small reward from you—a treat, a kind word, or a quick belly rub—can make all the difference.
The Takeaway
Lazy dog training isn’t about being neglectful—it’s about being smart, efficient, and kind. By noticing the little things, reinforcing the good stuff, and managing the environment to avoid stress, you can create a peaceful, happy home for both you and your dog.
Start small today. Pick one moment to reward, and watch your connection grow—all without breaking a sweat.