Practice Position Changes at Your Side

Use this once your dog knows each position individually and you want them combined at heel.

  1. 1Line up near a wall, leaving enough room for your dog to stand comfortably at your side but not turn to face you.
  2. 2Use the hand closest to your dog to lure them into a sit, then mark and reward.
  3. 3Lure your dog into a down, then mark and reward.
  4. 4Lure or present a hand touch for the stand, then mark and reward.
  5. 5Once your dog understands each movement at your side, say the verbal cue, pause briefly, and then give the familiar hand signal.
  6. 6Use the hand closest to your dog for each signal so they can see it without you turning your body.
  7. 7Once your dog performs each position beside the wall, begin practicing farther away, using a platform if needed.

Use a wall or platform to make position clear, then fade the support.

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