As a dog trainer, you provide a wealth of knowledge and skills during your training sessions. But what happens after you leave? That’s where training support resources come in—a way to continue supporting clients as they practice what you’ve taught. Yet the term “resources” can feel a bit vague. Are we talking about handouts? Videos? Links to cute dog memes (for morale)? Let’s break down what support resources are, how they can best support your clients, and how to create and deliver them without adding too much to your workload.
What are support resources?
Resources are tools that help your clients implement and reinforce the training they’re learning. They can be anything from a step-by-step guide to teaching “leave it” to a simple checklist of house-training essentials. The best resources:
- Clarify key concepts that clients might forget after the session.
- Break tasks into manageable steps that clients can follow.
- Provide motivation and encouragement to keep practicing.
- Answer common “what if” questions that clients might hesitate to ask during a session.
- Don’t consume too much of your time between sessions.
What types of support resources work best?
While the options are endless, here are some tried-and-true options to consider:
1. Handouts and checklists
A well-designed handout or checklist is one of the simplest and most effective resources you can offer. Clients love clear, actionable instructions.
- Example: A printable “Puppy Socialization Bingo” card with activities like “Meet a man in a hat” or “Walk on metal grates.”
- Why it works: It’s visual, simple, and offers clients tangible goals.
2. Step-by-step training plans
Provide a breakdown of how to teach a specific behavior. These are great for clients who need extra guidance or want to track their progress.
- Example: A week-by-week house-training guide.
- Why it works: It removes guesswork and builds confidence.
3. Videos
Sometimes it’s easier to show than to tell. Short, instructional videos can demonstrate techniques like leash handling, clicker timing, or body language cues.
- Tip: You don’t need to be a pro filmmaker. A 1-2 minute video shot on your phone, focused on the essential steps, is enough.
- Why it works: Seeing the technique in action helps clients replicate it accurately.
4. Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
Compile answers to common questions about a specific training topic.
- Example: For recall training, include FAQs like “What if my dog ignores me?” or “Should I use treats every time?”
- Why it works: Anticipates client concerns and builds trust.
5. Resource lists
Not every resource has to come from you. A curated list of books, articles, or videos can provide additional perspectives or reinforcement.
- Example: A list of dog-friendly cafes, parks, or hiking trails in your area, paired with a reminder to practice calm leash behavior.
- Why it works: It shows you’re invested in their overall experience, not just the training.
6. Templates for logs or journals
Help clients track their progress with ready-to-use templates.
- Example: A potty-training log to record accidents and successful outdoor trips.
- Why It Works: Keeps clients organized and highlights patterns they might miss.
7. Motivational tools
Encouragement goes a long way. Add a fun element to your resources to keep clients engaged.
- Example: A “Gold Star Chart” for kids (or adults!) to track their dog’s accomplishments.
- Why it works: Makes training feel less like a chore and more like a celebration.
How to create training support resources without overwhelm
Creating resources can feel daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. Start small, and build as you go.
1. Repurpose what you already do
Chances are, you’ve already explained “sit” or “loose-leash walking” a hundred times. Turn that explanation into a handout or script for a video.
- Use a voice-to-text app to dictate ideas while you drive.
- Keep a notebook or app handy to jot down tips you frequently give clients.
2. Templates are your friend
Don’t reinvent the wheel. Use tools like Canva or Word for professional-looking templates. You can even create a branded design for consistency.
3. Start with the basics
Depending on your training focus, create resources for the most common issues first (e.g., house training, recall). Once you’ve covered the essentials, you can branch out into niche topics like resource guarding or separation anxiety.
4. Test and improve
Your clients are your best testers. Start small, share a resource, and ask for feedback:
- Was it helpful?
- What was missing?
- Was it easy to understand?
Over time, refine your resources based on their responses.
How should you deliver training support resources?
Delivery is just as important as the content. You want your resources to be accessible, easy to use, and tailored to your clients’ preferences. One of the best ways to do this is to ask your clients how they prefer to learn and receive information. Do they like printed materials they can hold in their hands, videos they can watch at their own pace, or interactive online tools? Understanding these preferences allows you to develop resources that suit the majority of your clients.
1. Printed handouts
For in-person sessions, printed resources can be a great leave-behind. Avoid overwhelming your clients—1-2 handouts per session is usually enough.
2. Email or PDF downloads
Send resources as PDFs via email after a session. This gives clients a digital backup they can reference anytime and reprint if needed.
3. Dedicated client portals
If you work with many clients, consider using an easy-to-navigate online folder (e.g., Google Drive or Dropbox) to store resources they can access anytime.
4. A learning platform
Offer a more interactive and professional option by using a learning platform to host courses, training videos, or lesson plans. Platforms like Teachable or Thinkific allow clients to engage at their own pace, with all resources in one place.
5. A mix of old and new
Combine modern tools with tried-and-true methods. For example, pair a printed handout with a follow-up video link demonstrating the techniques or an invitation to access a related module on your learning platform.
Final Thoughts
Support resources are your bridge between training sessions and real life. They empower your clients to practice confidently, deepen their understanding, and stay motivated. Whether it’s a simple checklist, a quick video, or a handout, your resources should reflect your approach: clear, supportive, and focused on success. Start small, tailor your resources to your clients’ needs, and watch your training outcomes soar.