1. Introducing the Target Stick
- Start simple: Begin by holding the target stick close to your dog's nose and immediately reward when it shows interest or touches it.
- Mark the behavior: Use a clicker or words like "yes" or "good" as soon as the dog touches the stick, and give the dog a reward (treat).
2. Teaching the dog to follow the stick
- Once the dog understands that touching with its nose results in a reward, you can start moving the target stick around.
- Guiding: Move the stick a few centimeters so the dog follows it with its nose, and reward.
- Gradually increase difficulty: Slowly increase the distance, and make sure to reward regularly so the dog understands that persistence in following the stick leads to a reward.
3. Application to specific exercises
- Position training: Use the target stick to guide the dog into positions like "place", "sit", "stand", or "back up".
- Around objects: You can train the dog to go around objects or to follow the target stick over small obstacles.
- Learning tricks: The target stick can be used for tricks like "turn around", "bow", or backing up.
4. Generalize the behavior
- As the dog becomes familiar with the target stick, you can introduce commands like "touch" or "follow" to get it to perform the desired actions without using the target stick.
5. Gradual phasing out
- Over time, you can reduce the reliance on the target stick by using it less, while gradually transitioning to only verbal commands and rewards.
Benefits of the Target Stick in Training
- Precision: Allows you to guide your dog to precise positions.
- Support for shaping: Suitable for shaping, where the dog gradually learns complex exercises through small steps.
- Improved concentration: Helps maintain the dog's focus during training.
With regular training and patience, the target stick can become an effective aid for learning.
Product info:
Color: Dark blue with turquoise soft foam ball
Length: telescopic rod - 15 - 70cm