Command: “Touch”
Training Steps:
- Introduce the Target: Hold out your hand flat or a target stick and say “Touch.”
- Encourage Nose Touch: When your dog touches their nose to your hand or the stick, immediately reward them with a treat.
- Repeat and Reinforce: Continue practicing this, each time moving your hand or the target to different positions and heights.
- Add Commands: Once your dog reliably touches your hand or the target, you can use it to lead them into different positions or through obstacles.
Explanation: “Touch” is useful for guiding your dog’s movements and keeping their attention focused on you. It can be a foundational skill for more complex tasks and tricks.
Use Case: Use “Touch” to guide your dog around objects, through agility courses, or to get them into specific positions for grooming or veterinary exams.