Module 6.5 Teaching a Down
Teaching a Down
Video 1:
Teaching a down with duration helps your puppy learn to settle and stay in position calmly. Start by luring your puppy gently into a down using a treat, marking the moment they reach the position with “yes” (or a click) and rewarding while they remain in place. Once they are settled, give two more treats, one at a time, to encourage them to stay in the down. To finish, use a clear release cue such as “okay” (or “free”/“break”) to let your puppy move out of position. Over time, you can gradually increase the duration between treats, helping your puppy learn to stay relaxed in the down for longer periods.
Video 2:
As your puppy becomes more confident with the down behaviour, you can begin to gradually remove the food lure. Use the same visual hand cue, but without food in your hand, allowing your puppy to follow the familiar movement. If your puppy appears unsure at any stage, you can briefly reintroduce the food lure to support their understanding. When your puppy moves into the down position, mark with “yes” (or a click) and then deliver the reward from your treat bag. Follow this with two additional treats, given one at a time, to encourage your puppy to remain calmly in the down. To finish, use your release cue such as “okay” (or “free”/“break”) and give a final treat to encourage your puppy to move out of position. This approach helps maintain clarity while continuing to build duration and confidence in the behaviour.
