Introduction:
We're going to teach your dog to crawl using a lure. This trick is not only fun but also helps your dog develop better control over their body movements.
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Get a Treat: Choose a treat your dog loves and hold it in your hand.
- Start with a Down Position: Ask your dog to lie down.
- Show the Treat: Hold the treat close to your dog’s nose while they are in the down position.
- Move the Treat Forward: Slowly move the treat forward along the ground, just out of reach. Your dog should start crawling to follow the treat.
- Mark the Behavior: The moment your dog starts crawling, say ‘Yes!’ or use a clicker to mark the behavior.
- Reward:
Give your dog the treat and lots of praise immediately.
Practice:
- Repeat: Practice this several times in short sessions to reinforce the cue.
- Add the Verbal Cue: Once your dog consistently follows the lure to crawl, start saying ‘Crawl’ just before you move your hand.
- Fade the Lure: Gradually phase out the treat by using an empty hand to guide your dog into the crawl position. Reward with a treat from the other hand.
Tips:
- Start with small movements to help your dog understand the motion.
- Always use positive reinforcement with treats and praise.
- Keep training sessions short and fun to maintain your dog’s interest.
By following these steps, you'll be able to teach your dog to crawl with ease! 🐾 Ready to see some adorable crawls? 😊