Exercise 3-2: Lie flat on side
With hip, shoulder, and head down, on one side, lured, cued or manipulated, hold for 5 seconds.
Begin this exercise by luring, cueing or gently placing the dog on one side. The time starts when the dog puts his head down. If the dogs raises his head the count stops until the head is lowered again.
Exercise 3-2: Lie flat on side
With hip, shoulder, and head down, on one side, lured, cued or manipulated, hold for 5 seconds.
Begin this exercise by luring, cueing or gently placing the dog on one side. The time starts when the dog puts his head down. If the dogs raises his head the count stops until the head is lowered again.
Purpose: For both veterinary exams and grooming, having a dog who will lie quietly on his side is a huge help. This position is less difficult to hold than a stand for older dogs or dogs with injuries. It is also necessary for certain veterinary procedures. Adding the head down to the exercise gives us a chance to allow the dog to communicate with us by indicating consent and the willingness to opt in or out (head down continue, head up stop).
Equipment: Treats.
Exercise set-up: 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.
Handler may be on the floor with the dog, sitting on a chair, or standing if the dog is on an elevated surface.
Scoring: To pass this exercise the dog should willingly shift his weight onto one side with both the shoulder and hip on the ground once he is in a down position. This positioning can be accomplished by luring, the use of a cue, or gentle physical manipulation. Once the dog lowers his head, time begins. If the dog raises his head once, then voluntarily lowers it again within 3 seconds, the exercise can continue. The dog should then remain in the position for the required 5 second time duration.
Non-qualifiers: The dog strongly resists moving into position. The trainer uses strong force to move the dog into position. The dog repeatedly moves out of position and must be reset. The dog doesn’t hold the head down position for the required amount of time.
Tips: You can cue, lure, or place your dog into position for this exercise. Ideally your dog will become comfortable with both voluntary cues as well as with physically being placed into position.
Providing your treats so that your dog’s head is in a comfortable down position can help your dog more quickly understand this exercise.
Video example: