Introducing the Pivot Pot

Using a pivot pot can teach your dog how to move their rear end into position.

Your dog should be comfortable putting his/her front paws on a platform.

Clicker
Treats
Treat pouch
Platform – large enough for your dog’s front feet. Round is best. I use rubber livestock feed bowls stacked inside each other, but you can use an inverted water bowl or pot (be careful to keep it on a surface where it won’t slide).

Start in the least distracting (most boring) place in your home.

Put the treat in your dog’s mouth.

Start with your dog’s front feet on the pivot pot.
Stand next to your dog (with your dog on the left) and hold a treat directy in front of his nose.
Step counter clockwise and keep your hand in the same position in relation to your body. This should cause your dog’s head to turn.
If your dog’s back feet move, even the slightest amount, click and treat.
Continue to click and treat for any movement.

Work about five minutes at a time and take a break. Try to get in 2-4 training sessions per day.

Your dog should be shifting his/her feet around the pot.
The pivot may not be smooth yet, and he/she may not be pivoting completely into place, but you should be on your way.

My dog won’t move his/her back legs.

Try standing facing your dog and hold the treat directly in front of you as you move. Click and treat for any movement of the back feet.
Try taking your dog off the pot and practice luring him/her in a counter clockwise circle to get your dog used to the movement.
As a last resort, stand next to your dog and put a little pressure on him/her to get the back legs to move. Don’t push. And if your dog looks at all uncomfortable with your movement, quit immediately.