Today’s blog is written by Decoda’s Training Specialist, Jade Chan. 

Hi everyone, I am Gunner, a Shiba Inu who loves to read. This summer, I’d like to share with you a book that helped me train my human, Jade, to be the best dog owner she can be.

The Power of Habit – why we do what we do in life and in business is written by Charles Duhigg.

This book explores how habits work and how they can be changed. Duhigg introduces the habit loop, which has three parts:

1. Cue – the trigger that starts the habit
2. Routine – the action or behavior
3. Reward – what the brain gets out of it, reinforcing the habit

He explains how humans (and animals!) form habits by linking behaviors with consistent cues and satisfying rewards. Over time, these habits run on autopilot — which is great when they’re helpful and tricky when they’re not.

See, it is all about the habit loop.

1. Cue – I tilt my head or howl for attention.
2. Routine – my owner gives me a treat, throws a ball or grabs the leash.
3. Reward – I get food, play time or a walk. She feels good for being a responsible dog owner.

My owner then has learned that when I sit politely by the door, means outside time.

When I stare deep into her soul while she eats, means share with me.

When I drop my ball onto her lap 17 times, means playtime begins.

If she tries to ignore me, I will just up the cue with more tail wags, more whining and a strategic paw placement on her lap.

Just like the book says: habits are powerful and once a loop is in place, it sticks. My owner would react without thinking.

So don’t be surprised that one day she tells you “How did I end up giving my dog my entire lunch?”

Remember, it’s all habits.

Gunner, the black Shiba Inu