A 10-Minute Trick Training Session Before You Leave
A focused 10-minute trick session tires the brain faster than a walk tires the legs — and it costs nothing but a handful of treats.
Is this right for your dog?
Good for dogs who already know a basic cue like sit or stay. Skip this one if your dog guards treats around other pets in the house — do it in a separate room instead.
What you'll need
A few small, soft treats your dog already likes, and a quiet 10-minute window before you leave.
How to do it
- Warm up with two tricks your dog already knows well.
- Introduce or polish one new trick, keeping each rep short.
- End the session on an easy win your dog is sure to get right.
Why it works
This is cognitive enrichment: working out what earns a reward is more mentally tiring than physical exercise alone, and a tired brain settles faster once you're gone.
Safety & precautions
Nothing material here. Just avoid training right at the door on your way out — it can wind a dog up right before the one moment you want them calm.
When this isn't enough
If your dog won't engage even for a high-value treat, the anxiety may already be too high for training to land. Try the session earlier in the day instead of right before you leave.
See what's actually helping
Track which activities you try and how your dog responds — Qualma turns it into a pattern you can see.
Try it in Qualma