Week 2

Train the Place Command - How to Train the "Place" Command: A Step-by-Step Guide

The "place" command teaches your dog to go to a specific area, like a bed or mat, and stay there until released. It’s a versatile skill that helps create calm moments at home or in public. Watch how this is done with Steve Del Savio from Pack Leader Dogs

How to teach it:

1. Choose a designated spot, such as a dog bed or mat.

2. Use a treat to lure your dog to the spot and say, “Place.”

3. Once your dog is on the spot, reward them and add the command “Stay.”

4. Gradually increase the duration before releasing them with a cue like “Okay.”
   
   

Why it matters:

This skill is useful for managing your dog during meals, when guests arrive, or in busy environments. It promotes calm behavior and self-control.

Tip: Practice in short sessions and gradually increase difficulty by adding distractions.

Dog Parkour Training: Teach Your Dog to Go "Under" Obstacles 

See all the Novice Level skills from the International Dog Parkour Association.

Dog parkour is an excellent way to boost your dog’s confidence, coordination, and focus. This week, we’re introducing the "Under" skill.

What to do:
Find an obstacle that is less than shoulder height for your dog—a park bench, a low table, or even a sturdy chair. Encourage your dog to pass completely under it. Reward them for going all the way through, and be patient as they learn.

Why it matters:
This activity strengthens your dog's physical fitness, while teaching them to navigate the environment with purpose. Plus, it’s a fantastic mental workout!

Tip: Use treats or a favorite toy to guide your dog under the obstacle if they’re hesitant. Keep the session positive and fun!

Balance: Tracking Activity with Socks

Tracking engages your dog’s natural instincts and provides excellent mental stimulation. It’s one of the few activities where pulling is encouraged, so we’ll set up a fun and rewarding tracking session using socks as scent articles. Socks typically have a strong human scent, and I will also include the owner of the sock at the end with the article and "jackpot".

What You’ll Need

• A harness that doesn’t restrict shoulder motion, allowing your dog to move freely.

• Leash or long line: Start with a 6-foot leash, but progress to a longer line as your dog gains confidence.

• Start flag: Use a small marker to indicate the start of your trail (and add flags for turns as your dog improves).

• Articles: Socks, gloves, or dog toys can be used as items for your dog to find.

• Treats: Bring a mix of small, high-value treats and a jackpot for the end.

• Space: A large yard or open field is ideal for practice.

Getting Started

All dogs have the natural ability to track; you’re just teaching them to focus on the scent you indicate.

1. Lay the Trail

   • Place your start flag in the ground.

   • Walk about 20 feet, dropping small pieces of food with each step.

   • At the end of the trail, leave a sock (your article) along with a jackpot of treats. Loop back around to avoid confusing the scent trail.

2. Introduce the Track

   • Put the harness and leash on your dog.

   • Lead your dog to the start flag, point to the first treat, and enthusiastically say, “Go find!”

3. Follow Your Dog

   • Encourage your dog to follow the trail of treats. If they wander off track, wait patiently for them to return to the scent.

   • When your dog reaches the article (the sock), celebrate! Play with the sock, pet your dog, and let them enjoy the jackpot of treats.

4. Repeat and Gradually Challenge

   • Run the trail 2–3 times in one session. As your dog improves, make the trail longer or reduce the number of food drops along the way. Eventually, they’ll learn to track based on the scent alone.

Tips for Success

• Keep sessions short and fun to avoid overworking your dog.

• Track in a calm area to reduce distractions.

• Always end on a positive note with plenty of praise and treats.

This activity not only builds your dog’s confidence and problem-solving skills but also strengthens your bond as a team. Plus, socks are a fun, easy-to-use article that keeps things playful!

Strengthen Your Bond with Playtime: Toys and Bubbles

This week, we’re prioritizing joy and connection through play. Bring out your dog’s favorite toy or introduce them to the wonder of bubbles.

See an example of a DIY dog toy made from old socks.

What to do:

Spend 10-15 minutes engaging in focused play. Toss a ball, tug a rope, or blow bubbles and watch your dog chase and pop them.

Why it matters:

Play is a powerful way to strengthen your bond and release energy. It’s also a great reminder to live in the moment—something our dogs do so naturally.

Tip: Use this time to laugh, relax, and celebrate your unique relationship.