Advanced
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 back feet
At least as long as the dog’s body length + 1-2 inches (i.e., distance between front and back feet when standing); use a longer platform in the beginning
No higher than the dog’s hock (i.e., ankle) height
Use a lower height platform in the beginning
Exercise:
Have dog execute position change: down -> stand -> down on platform, with control and precision, keeping their feet still
What to do:
Lure/cue dog to lie down on platform
Lure/cue dog to push themselves up into a stand
Mark + treat
Lure/cue dog to lower themselves into a down
Mark + treat
Progression options:
Increase number of repetitions before reset
Increase incline/decline