How to Train Your Dog Based on Their CPTI Type

Every dog is different—but training them effectively isn’t just about breed or age. It’s about understanding their personality.

That’s where the Canine Personality Type Indicator (CPTI) comes in.

By identifying your dog’s CPTI type, you unlock insight into how they think, what motivates them, and how they respond to guidance. Training becomes less frustrating and more effective.

In this guide, we’ll explore how each CPTI axis affects your dog’s learning style and how to tailor your approach to their personality type.

What Is CPTI?

CPTI stands for Canine Personality Type Indicator, a four-axis framework designed to capture your dog’s core temperament traits:

• Sociality: Outgoing (O) vs. Shy (S)
• Exploration: Adventurous (A) vs. Anchored (I)
• Cooperation: Friendly (F) vs. Reserved (R)
• Emotionality: Reactive (R) vs. Resilient (V)

Each dog receives a 4-letter type (e.g., OAFR, SAIV) that reflects where they land on each spectrum. There are 16 total combinations.

You can discover your dog’s type by taking the CPTI Quiz.

Why CPTI Matters for Training

Dogs learn best when training matches their psychological profile.

• A reactive, shy dog needs confidence-building and calm repetition.
• An outgoing, adventurous dog thrives on variety and stimulation.
• A reserved dog may resist close contact or praise but responds to autonomy.

When you understand their temperament, you communicate in their language.

CPTI Axes and Training Strategies

🧍 Sociality: Outgoing (O) vs. Shy (S)

O-types love attention and interaction. They’re naturally social and often eager to please.

• Use group training classes, praise, and engagement games.
• Short commands with excited tone work well.

S-types are more reserved and observant. They need time to warm up.

• Create quiet, distraction-free environments.
• Use low-energy cues, patience, and space.

🧭 Exploration: Adventurous (A) vs. Anchored (I)

A-types are curious, bold, and easily bored.

• Use novelty: change up routes, toys, and games.
• Keep sessions short but dynamic.

I-types prefer structure and routine.

• Repeat lessons in familiar environments.
• Reward consistency and routine-following.

🫂 Cooperation: Friendly (F) vs. Reserved (R)

F-types love working with humans.

• Praise, petting, and eye contact are strong reinforcers.
• Respond well to team-based tasks and clicker training.

R-types are more independent.

• Use food rewards or task-driven goals (puzzles, fetch).
• Allow autonomy—avoid overly clingy methods.

⚡ Emotionality: Reactive (R) vs. Resilient (V)

R-types are sensitive to tone, volume, and energy.

• Use gentle cues, avoid scolding, and stick to short sessions.
• Build confidence slowly with positive-only methods.

V-types are steady and adaptable.

• Can handle varied environments and some pressure.
• Thrive on moderate challenges and progression.

Example: Training Two Different Types

OAFR (The Sociable Adventurer)

• High-energy, people-loving, curious
• Use agility games, group classes, and verbal praise
• Keep sessions fun, varied, and social

SAIV (The Gentle Traditionalist)

• Quiet, structured, loyal, and calm
• Use repetition, clear boundaries, soft cues
• Avoid overstimulation and novelty

These two dogs need completely different approaches to succeed—and that’s the power of CPTI.

Tips for CPTI-Aligned Training

• Keep sessions short (5–15 min) based on energy level
• Use the right reward: toys, treats, praise, or freedom
• Adjust voice tone and body language to suit the dog’s emotionality
• Be consistent with structure-loving dogs
• Be creative with easily bored types

Bringing It All Together

The more you understand your dog’s CPTI type, the more harmonious your training becomes.

• Less frustration
• Faster learning
• Deeper trust

Training isn’t one-size-fits-all. Personality matters.

Take the CPTI Quiz to find your dog’s personality type, or explore the 16 CPTI Types to learn how each one behaves, learns, and connects.

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