How to Train My Dog to Check In

The more I work with a dog and client the more I learn about the dog too. Often small details that are left out, but I will catch them as I handle the dog.

This dog is over stimulated just in changes in the environment; she is a high drive dog, and she will chase squirrels. Chasing a squirrel is her natural instinct but it can also be dangerous if she would pull on a walk to chase a squirrel.

I am using a 15-foot longline in the fenced area to help in the training set up. As she moves back to me, I will click and reward her for the good behavior. Reinforcing the behavior, I like and want her to do. If I would allow her to pull on leash, that is what she will learn to do. After all dogs learn how to live in our human world.

She wears a harness, that is properly fit to her. The clicker indicates she got it right and a reward is coming. The longline gives her more agency to move about. I use humane, methods and techniques in all my training set ups.

You can also do a set up in your home. If you are sitting at the computer or somewhere, place a small container of treats nearby and out of the dog's sight. Have a clicker on hand too. When your dog walks up to you, that is the time to click and reward. Your dog is naturally checking in with you. In the video below, I click as she is moving back to me.

• Dogs learn best when the environment is right.

• Dogs like routines, and predictability of what happens next. Establish a consistent routine.

• Using positive reinforcement is powerful in helping your dog learn.

• Be consistent in your training.

• Short training set ups really work.

• Using basic cues

• Socialize your dog by allowing them to see new environments, this helps with new experiences.

• Create a friendly training area in your home.

Mecca works with a longline in a fenced area as she trains the dog to check in. Using humane methods and techniques.

As your local Sheboygan Certified Behavior Adjustment Training Instructor CBATI-KA, I look forward to scheduling an Initial Consultation to get started.