Clean Run - July 2012 - 40

What's holding you back?

may unsure a · For situations where your doghim. Ifbeyour dogor nervous; for example, whenrestranger or child approaches has learned to respond in a

laxed manner when placed in a sit, down, or stand with your hand in his collar, he becomes less reactive to the situation. With your hands directly in contact with your dog you are also able to feel any inappropriate reaction quicker than you might if you are just holding the leash. This builds confidence both ways— your dog is more confident with you in control, and you are confident that you can control his reaction.

Before You Begin
As a rule I have not found it necessary to use food during these exercises, but if your dog is extremely hand-shy, you can start by simply holding the collar, reward with a treat, and release your dog’s collar when you say your release cue. Continue to hold the leash when you release, and play with your dog. Repeat this exercise several times per session until you feel your dog is comfortable with your hand in his collar, then continue with the exercises here. Although I normally start by placing my dog into the sit position, I will start with the stand for some dogs, especially if they are older or very fearful like our rescue Border Collie Nellie (shown in the photos). Once these dogs understand the exercise and are starting to relax when positioned, it becomes easier to place them into the sit.
Exercise 1 – Sit Your dog should be wearing a flat collar that is fitted so it cannot be pulled over his head and a short leash. Kneel on the ground and place your dog at your side. If you are right-handed, place your dog on your left side and use your right hand in your dog’s collar.

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Place your little finger and ring finger in the collar with your palm facing upward. The dog’s muzzle should rest between your index finger and thumb. Do not wrap your finger and thumb around the muzzle. Using your little finger and ring finger, pull the collar forward slightly so that the collar presses on the top of the dog’s neck. In this way the collar and hand is acting in a similar way to a head halter, but not putting any pressure on the top of the muzzle or the throat. Holding the collar this way is a little awkward for some people at first, but ensures that you are in control of the dog’s head.

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Using your right hand under the dog’s chin, tilt the head upward. Simultaneously stroke the dog from the left side of his head down the left side of his body with your left hand, and place the dog into the sit position. Do not give a verbal sit cue. If the dog struggles or leans away from you, replace him in the sit position. If the dog moves his head from your right hand, use the left hand to replace the head so that it rests on the right hand. If the dog settles, praise him by stroking him in a single direction from his head along his body, calmly adding verbal praise. Praise only the behavior you want; if your dog moves, simply say nothing and use your free hand to replace your dog.
Clean Run | July 12

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Clean Run - July 2012

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