Platform requirements:

  • Low, stable platform

  • The “short” side of the platform needs to be at least as wide as the distance between the dog’s front feet

  • No higher than the dog’s hock (i.e., ankle) height

  • Use a lower height platform in the beginning

Exercise:

  • Have dog move their back feet around the short end of the platform, while keeping their front feet on the platform.

What to do:

  1. Lure/cue dog to put front feet on the short end of the platform

  2. Mark + treat

  3. Lure/cue dog to side-step with their back feet, keeping their front feet on the platform

  4. Mark + treat each individual step

Progression options: