Lie Down, Rufus

Down From Sit Position

• Sit on the floor with the dog standing sideways in front of you.
• Ask him to sit, or lure him into a sit with a treat right in front of his nose. Now, slowly bring your hand straight down between his front legs. It’s very important to go slowly, otherwise, the dog might completely miss it!
• When the dog’s nose is almost on the floor, as he is following the treat, slowly bring your hand with the treat slightly forwards, away from the dog. Hold your hand flat against the floor. As he then moves forwards, the whole body should go down to the floor.
• As soon as he goes into the position (not before), say ‘down’, praise the dog in a happy voice and allow him to nibble on the treat, while still lying down.

Down From Standing Position

• Once again, have your dog standing sideways in front of you.
• Bring your hand, holding the treat, straight down between his front legs, slowly.
• As his front legs go flat on the floor, once again flatten your hand against the ground, and now move your hand with the treat slowly towards the dog.
• Once he lies down, say ‘down’, praise him and let him eat the treat, while still lying down.

Treats

Remember to factor the number of treats into your dog’s daily food allowance. You can use some of his food, or small treats. Small, thoroughly cooked chicken pieces also work if your dog likes, and can eat, chicken. Visit Family Pet Centre in Centurion or Fourways for a variety of treats, or shop online at www.familypetcentre.co.za. [Maybe a link to the treats section will work well]

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