Command: “Gentle”
Training Steps:
- Start with a Treat: Hold a treat in your fingers and offer it to your dog, saying “Gentle.”
- Condition the Response: If your dog tries to snatch the treat aggressively, close your hand, and withdraw it. Wait for a moment then try again, repeating the command.
- Reward Soft Behavior: Only give the treat when your dog approaches it calmly and takes it gently from your hand.
- Reinforce Consistently: Practice this regularly during feeding times or when giving treats to reinforce gentle taking.
Explanation: “Gentle” teaches your dog to take food and treats softly from your hand, which is essential for safe interactions, especially with children or during feeding.
Use Case: This command is particularly useful when children are involved in feeding the dog or when giving medication that the dog needs to take from the hand.