Training on a Budget: Free Ways to Teach Big Skills

Fostering comes with a lot of heart - and sometimes, a tight wallet. But here’s the great news: some of the most important lessons your foster puppy needs to learn can be taught with little more than your time, patience, and creativity. Whether you're prepping your puppy for adoption or just hoping to make daily life smoother, you don't need a big budget to make a big impact.

1. Use Mealtime as Training Time

Instead of feeding your puppy from a bowl, try hand-feeding a portion of their kibble during short training sessions throughout the day. It builds trust, keeps them engaged, and reinforces your bond - all while teaching useful cues like sit, stay, look, and touch.

Tip: If you’re working with more than one dog, do individual sessions so each pup gets one-on-one focus time!

2. Turn Everyday Moments Into Learning Opportunities

You don’t need a formal “training session” to train. Waiting at the door before going outside? Practice impulse control. Walking to the crate? Add a cue like go to bed. Puppies are always learning, make it count!

3. Repurpose Household Items for Enrichment

Toilet paper rolls, cardboard boxes, towels, muffin tins - your home is full of free enrichment toys! Hide kibble or treats for your puppy to sniff out, encouraging problem-solving and focus.

Tip: Mental stimulation is be just as tiring (and important!) as physical exercise.

4. Reward With Life, Not Just Treats

While treats are great, you can also use praise, playtime, access to toys, or the opportunity to go outside as a reward for good behavior. This teaches your foster that listening pays off in all sorts of ways!

5. Leverage Free Resources Online

There are tons of force-free, reward-based training videos available from reputable trainers. YouTube channels like Kikopup, and organizations like Fear Free Pets, offer solid advice for fosters looking to sharpen their training skills.

Tip: Just be sure to vet your sources and look for trainers who use positive reinforcement and avoid punishment-based techniques.

6. Keep Sessions Short and Sweet

Big progress can come from just 2–5 minutes a few times a day. It’s about consistency more than time. Short, successful sessions leave your puppy feeling confident and eager to learn more.

You’re Already Doing Amazing

Fostering is a full-time act of love. Every minute you spend teaching, encouraging, or simply snuggling your foster matters. Training doesn’t need to be expensive or complicated. You’re doing enough. And your foster pup? They think you’re a hero.

Want more free tools to help your foster thrive?

Check out our Free Guides section!