Today's lesson: Even if it's chilly outside, we still make time for play!
Teaching your dog to touch their nose to an object is an essential foundation skill called Targeting.
Start in a quiet place with small treats ready. Lower your hand to their nose level, and when they touch it, reward them with treats and praise to mark the behavior you want to see. Next, introduce a cue word like “touch,” “yes,” or “target” and continue to reward them.
As your dog gets better, practice in places with low distractions, gradually increasing the difficulty by adding more distractions and distance. This simple trick is versatile and can help in many situations, from walking nicely on a leash to greeting people politely, handling vet visits, and more.
Training touch can redirect your dog’s focus away from distractions like other dogs or squirrels, build their confidence, and make walks more engaging. It also helps strengthen your bond and can be used to guide them into specific positions without physical manipulation. Plus, it’s a great way for both you and your dog to succeed right from the start!
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A little about the dogs in this video: Kevin is a border collie/corgi puppy and this is his first training session. The second dog featured is Sammie, who belongs to Laura Taylor, the owner and creator of Peachable Paws.
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Uffi the mastiff pup, had his first debut at a public place on a leash! How great that in such a wild new environment with so many vibrant sights and smells, he was able to stay focused!