Dog target training may be a less well-known way to train your dog, but it is definitely picking up in popularity among dog owners. No other training technique hones your dog’s concentration skills as effectively as target training, and the process can help your dog develop their cognitive abilities.
Target stick dog training is a great technique to teach your dog, but what exactly is it and how do you begin to train your dog with this method? In this article, we explore all the questions you may have about target training and the benefits.
What is dog target training?
Target training is a method where you teach your dog to identify specific objects and react to those objects in a certain way.
For instance, if you show your dog a mat, your dog’s first reaction will be to use all of their body to respond to that object—in other words, they will lie down on the mat. But what if you could teach your dog to only touch their nose to the mat or only put their front paws on it? This way, your dog will be responding to the mat in a specific way (or with a trained action) by using only one body part.
You can see why dog target training is growing popular: it teaches your dog better motor control and concentration skills. It also allows them to identify objects better, which can be very useful if you want to train them to tidy up their toys or close the refrigerator door!
How do you start target training?
The easiest way to get your dog started on target training is to teach them to identify a specific object with a body part. Begin by using your hand as your dog will probably already be familiar with hand signals and is already comfortable around you.
You will need a clicker, treats and lots of fuss and praise for this, as these reinforce positive behaviour.
• Present your hand to your dog, around half an inch away from his nose. If your dog looks at your hand, click and reward your dog.
• If they touch their nose to your palm, click and reward them.
• Keep repeating this action until they can follow your palm to the left, right and above them, all the while touching their nose to it. Make sure to positively reward your dog with lots of praise and treats—that is how they know what you want them to do!
Once your dog is good at focusing on an object and touching it with their nose, it’s time to progress onto target stick dog training.