teach your dog to be comfortable on novel surfaces
Introducing your dog to different surfaces is essential for dog-sport training. Dogs that compete in dog sports must have the confidence and stamina to tackle novel, unstable surfaces and surfaces with different textures and of different heights. One way to encourage your dog to explore a new surface is to scatter treats for him to forage.
This video, courtesy of KPA CTP Celine Yang, shows a dog foraging for treats on a sheet of lattice. As your dog gains confidence on level, uneven surfaces, you can begin to work on footing of varying heights and stability. Once the dog in the video is comfortable walking on the lattice, the trainer and dog progress to low platforms, wobble boards, and, eventually, the teeter! Remember to go at your dog’s pace and use lots of treats to keep the training positive and fun!
Looking for more ideas for training critical sport skills? Check out Karen Pryor Academy’s Dog Sports Essentials course!
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Learn the skills you both need for most major dog sports in our online course, Dog Sports Essentials.
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