Lesson 3: Target Stick

First, Construct a target stick.

Use a bamboo branch or old broom handle to make a target stick. You may choose to put something like a tennis ball on the end to make it softer. Or you can paint the end white. The idea is to have an area for your dog to aim for.

Why is a target stick useful?
A target stick can be used to teach your dog to aim for a set point (much how you taught to target your hand in lesson) and will be useful for getting your dog to learn other behaviors. For example you can raise the stick above your dog's head and teach her to beg.

1. Put some peanut butter on the very end of the stick and hold the other end. When your dog sniffs the stick, say "target", click and reward your dog.
2. Repeat several times. Now come back later and reward your dog for nudging the stick, most dogs catch on in two or three lessons.
3. Practice!