Platform requirements:

  • Low, stable platform

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

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

  • Use a lower height platform in the beginning

Exercise:

  • Have dog step ON and OFF the platform while moving backward

What to do:

  1. Lure/cue dog to step ON the platform with their back feet

  2. Mark + treat

  3. Lure/cue dog to move back, step OFF the platform with their back feet, and step ON the platform with their front feet

  4. Mark + treat

Progression options: