Wipe Mouth After Drinking Water

Objective:

Teach your dog to dry their mouth or face after drinking water by using a towel, incorporating a specific cue (“dry off”), and gradually increasing the behavior’s complexity.

Method:

1. Drop Treats onto the Towel:
Start by dropping treats onto a towel. When your dog approaches the towel to get the treat, immediately mark and reward the moment they take the treat. This will help them associate the towel with something positive.

2. Point to the Towel and Say "Dry Off":
Next, point to the towel and say the verbal cue “Dry off” in a calm, clear voice. When your dog touches the towel (even if it’s just their nose or paw), immediately mark the behavior and reward them. This helps them start connecting the action of touching the towel with the cue.

3. Add Duration:
Once your dog understands that touching the towel is the correct behavior, begin adding duration. Ask your dog to hold their chin or face on the towel for a few seconds before rewarding them. Start with a short duration and gradually increase it as they become more comfortable.

4. Add Distance Between Your Dog and the Towel:
Now, begin to introduce some distance between your dog and the towel. Put the towel a few feet away and encourage your dog to walk over to it. Once they touch it, mark and reward. Gradually increase the distance as they become more proficient at going to the towel.

• Important Tip: When adding distance, you may need to return to step 3 for a brief period, using a quick duration (a second or two) before increasing the duration again. This will help your dog stay focused on the towel and the action of touching or holding their face there.

5. Put It All Together:
Once your dog consistently touches the towel after being prompted, start incorporating it into their drinking routine. As soon as your dog finishes drinking water, say “Dry off.” When they go to the towel, mark and reward them.

• Note: This step will take longer than most because it requires you to be aware when your dog is drinking. You need to be ready to give the “Dry off” cue right after they drink to help them understand that every time they drink, they need to dry off. Consistency is key!

Tips & Troubleshooting:

• If your dog isn’t touching the towel when prompted:
  Make sure the towel is positioned in a way that’s easy for them to access. Start by dropping treats on it, then gradually work on getting them to touch it with their nose or paw. Be patient and reward any attempt to engage with the towel.

• If your dog doesn’t understand the “Dry off” cue:
  It can take time for your dog to link the cue with the action. Keep practicing with positive reinforcement and be consistent with the timing of your verbal cue.

• If your dog is distracted or not focusing on the towel:
  Start by practicing in a low-distraction area. Once your dog understands the behavior, gradually add distractions to help them focus when it’s time to dry off.

Questions?

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

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