Introduction to Directional Work Using Placeboards

In this lesson, we begin introducing directional work and teaching your dog to take guidance from you. This is the foundation for future handling exercises, where your dog will learn to respond to your signals and work as part of a team with you.

Start with the placeboards positioned close together. Using a treat in the hand you intend to direct with, lure your dog from one placeboard to the other. As always, use your "place" cue to ask your dog onto the board, then click and reward once they are in position.

Repeat the exercise in both directions several times, allowing your dog to become comfortable following your hand signal and understanding that your direction leads them to the correct place.

Once your dog is confidently moving between the placeboards, you can begin to gradually increase the distance between them. Build this slowly over a number of training sessions, making sure your dog remains confident and successful at each stage.

If your dog struggles at any point, simply reduce the distance back to where they were successful and rebuild from there. There is no benefit in pushing on before your dog understands the exercise.

This early directional work is about creating clarity and confidence. Your dog needs to learn that watching you and responding to your guidance is rewarding.

As always, less is more. Take your time, build strong foundations, and let your dog's confidence grow.