Proofing Commands

3D Dog Training.

Do you want your dog to listen outside of your living room and take them on the go with you? 

There are “3 D’s” we need to focus on in order to get them there. 

Duration: How long can your dog hold the command? When practicing the duration of a command be sure to change up the length of time in between rewards. If you become robotic and predictable your dog will be less likely to maintain the position if you miss the expected time interval. 

Distraction: How much can you have going on around your dog and have them hold the command? When practicing, start with small distractions like knocking on your door and rewarding not barking or getting up from the command. Each and every distraction they ignore needs to be marked and rewarded or the dog might find the distraction more interesting than working with you on the command.

Distance: How far can you be from the dog to give a command and how far can you move away from your dog once they are in the position. Make sure when practicing outside you use a long line until you are comfortable with the distance you are moving from your dog. The place command is a great position to start with since it has very clear boundaries for the dog. Once they get the game you can move onto having them remain in a sit or down position.