Pivot Around an Obstacle
Pivoting around an obstacle can help your dog learn to keep his rear end tucked.
Prerequisite
Your dog should be walking next to you relatively well in the training environment.
Tools
- Clicker
- Treats
- Treat pouch
- A square or rectangular obstacle large enough for your dog. This might be a large crate, furniture, a kitchen butcher’s block, etc.
Training Environment
Clearly your training environment will depend on the obstacle you are using, but reduce distractions as much as possible.
Recommended Treat Position
Put the treat in your dog’s mouth at eye level right next to your leg.
Steps
- With your dog in heel position, walk counter clockwise around the obstacle. Your dog should be on your left, and the obstacle on your dog’s left.
- Click and treat after several steps. Be as random with your rewards as possible.
Homework
5 minutes per day minimum for 3-4 days until your dog gets into a pattern of moving with you without curling around the obstacle.
At the End of This Step
- Your dog will be more aware of his rear end.
- Your dog should be walking straight at your side