Climb

Climb command. This essential utility begins with luring the dog to any place that is elevated. First you begin by getting the dog to follow your lure. As always, mark and reward. Once the dog has followed your lure at least 5 times, this will become the physical cue. Try this again 5 times. If the dog gets the physical cue and climbs to the higher elevation, then they are understanding the request. Now you can add the verbal command. Remember the Verbal command must come first. Then half second later you can add the physical cue, mark and reward.

The off command is the same. You can jump start the dog by showing them a treat that you have dropped on the ground a short distance from the climb spot. When they jump down to get the treat, mark and reward. Lure back to the climb spot, then lure off. Bring the same treat to their nose and lure them off. This will be your off physical cue. After you have done this 5 times, you are ready to add the verbal command. While the dog is on the elevated spot, have them focus on you. Once they have the eye contact, say Off, then physical cue them to the landing spot. Mark and reward. With both commands, you will eventually fade out the treat. This may take a little longer for some dogs. Don’t be discouraged. All dogs, like people and children, learn at different speeds. Be a good and understanding teacher. Be patient, and kind. Remember, you want learning to be a fun experience. Don’t forget, Slow is Fast.