Exercise 1-1: Chin Rest
Single + double, 5 seconds each.
The dog performs a single hand chin rest with his muzzle voluntarily held in the palm of one hand for a duration of 5 seconds. The dog is then released from this position.
The dog then performs a double chin rest with his muzzle voluntarily held in the palms of both hands for a duration of 5 seconds. The exercise ends at the completion of this part of the exercise.
Duration is counted while the dog’s head is steady and still in the handler’s hands.
Exercise 1-1: Chin Rest
Single + double, 5 seconds each.
The dog performs a single hand chin rest with his muzzle voluntarily held in the palm of one hand for a duration of 5 seconds. The dog is then released from this position.
The dog then performs a double chin rest with his muzzle voluntarily held in the palms of both hands for a duration of 5 seconds. The exercise ends at the completion of this part of the exercise.
Duration is counted while the dog’s head is steady and still in the handler’s hands.
Purpose: The chin rest is a highly versatile exercise that will be used as a foundation for many husbandry skills. Training a solid, reliable chin rest early is essential for overall success. The voluntary chin rest is a way to encourage stillness in your dog and also a good measure of your dog’s comfort and consent to continue with procedures.
Equipment: Treats.
Exercise set-up: Handler can be sitting on a chair or other piece of furniture. With smaller dogs, you may sit on the floor or a low stool. With larger dogs, you may want to stand or sit on a more elevated surface.
Scoring: To pass this exercise the dog should steadily rest his chin in the trainer’s hand(s) for the required amount of time. Both parts of the exercise (single and double chin rest) must be clearly shown and completed.
Non-qualifiers: The dog repeatedly moves his head out of the trainer’s hand(s) during the exercise. The trainer appears to hold the dog’s muzzle rather than allow the dog the option to move if desired. Both variations (single & double chin rest) are not shown and completed.
Tips: Take your time building a solid foundation on the chin rest here. Allow your dog the choice of whether or not he wants to offer this behavior. It will make all your future husbandry work MUCH easier!
Video example:
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