Fearful Dogs

Teaching your dog to touch a target with their nose can be very beneficial.  Once they have mastered touching a target; you can utilize the behavior to distract them from fearful sounds, situations and people.  Some people have found touching a target to be very useful with a visit to the vet; often this a scary and fearful environment for many dogs.

Here are some guidelines to help you teach your dog to touch a target:

·         Begin by placing the back of your hand approximately six inches from their face; dogs seem to instinctively investigate the back of your hand with their nose.

·         As soon as their nose touches your hand give them verbal praise or a treat

·         If your dog does not touch your hand, try moving your hand to one side, touch your hand yourself, or place your hand behind your back and start all over.  (you should not physically move your dog’s head, they must do this on their own)

·         Repeat this training process several times; be sure to always praise with words or a treat when they touch the target.

·         Once they have mastered that, add the word “touch” to your training process; you may find that it will be like starting all over. Just be patient; they will catch on

·         After they have learned to touch your hand on command; move your hand further from their face and say “touch”.  With some dogs you will be able to move your hand six inches  and with others only an inch. 

·         Once they have mastered this; mix it up even more.  Offer your hand away from their face, switch hands, even try saying ‘touch” when you are in a different room from your dog. 

(provided by Brandykegs Saint Bernards)
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