How to Use a Target Stick

A target stick is one of the most efficient tools when it comes to dog training. Once the dog owner is familiar with this particular training technique, the actual target stick can be anything from a pen to a piece of wood. This is a great training method for both puppies and adult dogs, since it teaches them to acquire desired behaviors by making them focus on a particular object --- in this case, the target stick. When it comes to educating your dog, a target stick is a very useful tool to have around.

Things You'll Need

  • Short stick
  • Dog treats
  • Cream cheese or Mayo
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Instructions

    • 1

      Grab the target stick and hold it in front of your dog´s nose. Once your dog focuses even the least bit of attention on the stick, reward it with a treat.

    • 2

      Move the stick slightly in all directions. Only reward your dog if he follows the stick with actual head movements.

    • 3

      Hold the target stick close to its nose and persuade it to touch the stick with it. Slightly dip the stick in a bit of mayo or cream cheese in order to make the process easier.

    • 4

      Add more actions to the targeting process. Hold the stick further away from the dog´s nose and move it in different directions. Also, try this when the dog adopts different postures, such as sitting, laying down or standing.

    • 5

      Teach your dog to touch the target stick while in movement and on the floor. Only when your dog achieves this task should you reward it with a treat. This will teach the dog that the target stick should always be the object of focus, regardless of its movement or position.

    • 6

      Create an association in your dog´s mind between a short command word and touching the target stick. Choose a command word and say it to your dog right before showing it the target stick. Once it focuses its attention on the stick, reward it with a treat.

    • 7

      Repeat this process until your dog clearly associates the word and the behavior as a joint command. Now, you may begin using the target stick as an educational tool to properly train your pet.