Safety

Objective:

• Teach your dog to sit between your legs.

Method:

• Stand with your legs slightly apart and have treats ready in your hand.

• Have your dog sit in between your legs. Say the word “Safety”, and once your dog looks up at you, Mark and Reward.

• Next lure your dog to come between your legs from behind. Use a treat to guide them forward, encouraging them to move into the space. As they enter, say “Safety” to associate the command with the behavior. Once they are sitting comfortably between your legs, mark the behavior with a click or a verbal cue like “Yes!” and reward them immediately with a treat and praise.

• Once your dog is comfortable coming from behind, practice having them go around you. Stand with your legs apart and use a treat to encourage them to circle around to the front. As they come back to sit between your legs, use the same command “Safety” and reward them when they do.

• Gradually increase the difficulty by practicing from different angles and distances, ensuring they understand the command and position.

Tips & Troubleshooting:

• If they hesitate with going around your legs, allow them time to think it through. If they don’t get it, give them a “clue” by turning your back to them, allowing them to go under your legs from behind you.

• If they hesitate, start with a larger gap between your legs and gradually narrow it as they become more comfortable with the position.

• If they get distracted, use a favorite toy or treat to hold their attention and encourage them to focus on you.

Questions?

Email me at kevin@pawsitivetraining.org your questions and I will help in any way that I can!

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