Exercise 2-3: Restraint
Calmly tolerate physical restraint for 5 seconds in down on side position.
Once the dog is in the down position on one side (either cued or placed), the handler will gently restrain by placing hands lightly on the hip and shoulder. Hold for a count of 5. The dog should remain calm and quiet. The head does not need to remain down during this exercise.
Exercise 2-3: Restraint
Calmly tolerate physical restraint for 5 seconds in down on side position.
Once the dog is in the down position on one side (either cued or placed), the handler will gently restrain by placing hands lightly on the hip and shoulder. Hold for a count of 5. The dog should remain calm and quiet. The head does not need to remain down during this exercise.
Purpose: There are likely to be situations in which a dog MUST be physically restrained in order to be groomed, examined, and/or treated. One way to help the dog cope well is by providing positive practice for the possibility of such an event. Our goal is to make restraint a common part of handling which leads to positive outcomes for the dog.
Equipment: Treats. Surface that is large enough for your dog to comfortably lie on his side. Can be on the floor, a rug or slightly elevated bed, or an elevated grooming table. Any elevated surface used should be safe and stable.
Exercise set-up: The dog will begin this exercise in a standing position and the handler will be facing the dog from the side. The handler may choose a position (floor, kneeling, sitting, or standing) that is most comfortable based on the size of the dog and the elevation of the dog.
Scoring: In order to pass this exercise the dog must either respond to a cue or lure and move into position willingly, or allow the handler to place him into position without struggling. He must then maintain the position for the required duration without repeated attempts to move.
Non-qualifiers: The dog consistently struggles to get up during the exercise. The handler does not maintain a steady but light hold for the duration of the exercise. The handler must use constant verbal cues to get the dog to remain in place.
Tips: We want to teach our dogs that being restrained on their side is just a normal part of their daily lives. Our goal is to make it a common and comfortable event. Restraint happens regularly and is typically followed by treats, so it’s no big deal. Start with very light restraint and short duration.
Video example:
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