Touch | Woof University, LLC

"Touch" Cue

The "Touch" cue can be used to move your dog around without physically manipulating them. When we move our dogs for them, they are passive and don't need to think. It is better to teach them to follow cues and do it themselves.

Rub a treat to the palm of your hand to scent it.

Say the cue "Touch" ONE TIME, and present the palm of your hand to your dog no more than 2" away from their face.

When your dog touches the palm of your hand with their nose, give the reward earned cue and then get a treat from your pouch to give them.

When your dog is reliably touching your palm from 2" away, begin increasing the distance slightly so that your dog has to take a step or 2 to reach it.

When your dog is following your hand to touch it, use the "Touch" cue to get them onto furniture, out of the car, onto their bed, and any time you need them to go to a particular spot.

THe hand signal for "Touch" is to present your palm facing your dog, fingers pointed down.

"Touch" is great for getting your dog to step onto the scale at the vet's office. They are more confident if they step on themselves than if they are pushed there.

"Touch" can also be used in place of "Come" if your dog responds better to it. Many dogs find "Touch" more fun than "Come".

For dogs who have a hard time sitting politely for petting, "Touch" can be used to keep them standing still for petting instead.

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Week 4

Say the cue "Touch" ONE TIME, and present the palm of your hand to your dog, then move it a few inches so they have to follow it.

When your dog touches the palm of your hand with their nose, give the reward earned cue and then get a treat from your pouch to give them.

Move your hand in a different direction each time.

Try moving your dog onto their bed or the couch, etc.

When we physically move our dog with the leash or collar or by lifting, pulling, or pushing, they are not learning how to how to follow your cues on their own. It's easy to get into that habit instead of communicating with them. Remember to use the cues they've learned instead of doing it for them.

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