Start by practicing in a novel, safe area. In this video, KPA faculty member Debbie Martin introduces her dog to the sound of the doorbell on her secure patio. Each time she prompts the sound of the doorbell, she asks her dog for a touch. Once the dog is performing the touch behavior reliably, Debbie begins practicing in the house. Through repetition, her dog begins to anticipate offering the touch behavior when hearing the bell. Once her dog is performing the touch behavior reliably with the sound of the doorbell, Debbie cues the next behavior, which is either go outside or get a toy, depending on the situation. Her dog has now learned that the sound of the doorbell is an opportunity to earn treats through alternate, calm behaviors!

For more ideas about how to get started training your dog, check out our blogs and the Dog Trainer Foundations course! The Immersion version of the Dog Trainer Foundations course offers an even more personalized, structured learning experience plus five hours of coaching to help you get to the next step!

Happy Training!