Training Takes Time: Why Patience & Consistency Matter

How long does dog training really take?

It’s one of the most common questions I get asked—and it’s a valid one. But the honest answer? It depends.

There’s no magic number when it comes to how long it takes to train a dog. Every dog is different. They come with their own personalities, histories, genetic traits, and quirks. Some dogs pick up new behaviours quickly; others need more time, repetition, and support. And that’s okay.

But here’s the thing I want every dog owner to know: training takes time.

The Myth of the Quick Fix

It’s easy to fall into the trap of expecting quick results—especially with the amount of “fast fix” dog training videos online. But real, lasting change doesn’t happen overnight.

We live in a world that moves fast and loves shortcuts, but dogs don’t learn through quick hacks. They learn through repetition, consistency, and trust. I’ve worked with countless clients who came in hoping for a one-session solution—but most training goals require commitment, especially when you're dealing with behaviours like reactivity, pulling on lead, or recall.

An example

Take loose lead walking, for example. This isn’t just about telling your dog not to pull. It’s about:

• Teaching leash pressure and release

• Creating a clear communication system that works both ways

• Generalising the behaviour in different locations and around different distractions

• Helping your dog understand where to be

  
  

This takes time, especially if your dog has been used to charging ahead for months (or even years) and the pulling has unintentionally been reinforced. It requires consistent practice, calm repetition, and heaps of patience.

Recall is another big one. Teaching your dog to come back when called is about far more than the cue word. It’s about:

• Building a strong relationship with your dog

• Building motivation and engagement from your dog

• Teaching them to navigate distractions and proof in different environments

• Creating boundaries and realistic expectations

Recall isn’t a one-and-done behaviour. It’s something you build with your dog. And yes—it takes time.

So... How Long Will It Take?

While I can’t give you an exact timeline, I can promise you this:If you stay consistent, show up with patience, and remain open to learning, you will see progress.

It might be slow at times. You might have days where it feels like nothing is changing. But the effort you put in always adds up.

The Payoff Is Worth It

Training is important for giving your dog clarity, building confidence and trust, providing mental stimulation, and teaching manners etc—But we must remember that it's a journey, not a sprint.

At Rae Canine, I believe in working with your dog, not against them. That means laying strong foundations, building trust, and setting both of you up for long-term success.

So if you’re wondering how long training will take, the answer is: as long as it needs to. But trust me—every minute you invest will be worth it.