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Old dogs — really dogs of any age — can learn new tricks. They just need regular practice, a good teacher (that’s you), and a little motivation (read: T-R-E-A-T-S). Training your dog and helping them learn new skills not only supports you in your day-to-day life (think: sit, stay, come, and potty training), it also helps your dog’s cognitive development and bonds them more closely with you. Here’s a great recall exercise you can teach your dog in 5 easy steps. It’s called “touch.”

Teaching your dog “touch” on cue is useful in a variety of situations. It can help:

• redirect a reactive dog in the presence of one of their triggers.
• distract an anxious dog and help build confidence in new environments.
• entertain and exercise high-energy breeds.
• as a reliable recall command during off-leash activities.

What You’ll Need:

1. High-Value Treats
2. A Clicker (optional)
3. Your Dog (not optional)

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Step 1

Find a place with minimal distractions, then ask your dog to sit. Next, place your outstretched palm within an inch of your dog’s nose — close enough that they’ll reach out and touch it on their own.

Step 2

As soon as your dog naturally nudges your palm, immediately mark the action with a positive verbal cue or a clicker. Promptly reward your dog with a treat from your other hand.

Repeat this sequence 5 times.

Step 3

During the next sequence, add the verbal cue “touch.” Say the cue and place your palm a few inches from their face.

Once you feel your dog’s nose make contact with your palm, mark the action and reward them with a treat.

Repeat this sequence 5 times (or more if necessary).

Step 4

Next, move your hand further away from your dog as you say your cue (“touch”). They will likely have to step toward you in order to touch your palm from this new height/ distance.

Say the cue, put your hand out, then mark the action, and reward with a treat.

Repeat until the association becomes stronger.

Step 5

Advanced Training

Begin implementing longer distance touches, higher touches, or several touches in a row.

Continue to practice “touch” in different environments with different levels of distraction.

Always mark the action and reward with a treat.