Command To

"Walking around an object" (short: "Around") is a fun and challenging exercise that strengthens your dog's focus and agility. This trick is ideal for physical and mental stimulation and can be extended to different situations and obstacles, such as a chair, a tree, or a bucket.

How to Teach Your Dog to "Walk Around an Object"

1. Choose an Object: Use a clear, stable object, such as a chair or bucket, that your dog can easily understand as a target.
2. Use a reward: Hold a treat or toy in your hand to guide your dog.
3. Give the command: Say "Om" or another chosen word while using the treat to lure your dog and have him walk around the object.
4. Follow the movement: Move with your dog to help him circle the object. Once he's completed a full circle, immediately reward him with a treat and a marker signal like "Yes" or "Good boy."
5. Reward only on command: It's important to reward your dog only when they circle the object after you give the command. If they do it on their own without your cue, don't reward them.
6. Refine the exercise: Once your dog understands the command, you can gradually remove the treat and have him respond only with a hand signal or the spoken command.

Tips for success

• Start small: Use a small, simple object to start and increase the challenge as your dog becomes more experienced.
• Make it fun: Reward your dog enthusiastically and keep training playful to keep him motivated.
• Practice variation: Have your dog circle different objects or use a combination of several objects.
• Use a quiet environment: Start in a stimulus-free environment and add more distractions later.

Why is 'Walking around an object' important?

This trick improves your dog's focus, body coordination, and obedience. It's also a great way to keep him mentally and physically engaged, especially if you combine the exercise with other tricks or obstacle training.

Troubleshooting during training

• Is your dog not walking around the object? Use a stronger reward or move along with him to guide him.
• Is he getting distracted? Start again in a quiet environment and work without distractions.
• Is he struggling with direction? Start with small steps and reward each attempt that goes in the right direction.

Want to show us how you teach your dog to "walk around an object"? Send us a video explaining the training process and demonstrating your approach. Email your video to klantenservice@fidello.nl and receive €10 in store credit if your submission is published.