Moving to One Placeboard

Once your dog is confidently and happily going onto the two placeboards, you can begin to progress to using a single placeboard.

The process remains exactly the same as the previous exercise. Split the two placeboards apart and repeat the training steps you have already introduced.

Continue to use the word “place” to ask your dog onto the board and your dog’s name as the release cue. Keep your dog on the lead if needed so you can calmly guide them and help them succeed.

As soon as your dog steps onto the single placeboard, mark the behaviour with your clicker and reward. Continue to build confidence through repetition and keep your sessions short and positive.

Your aim at this stage is for your dog to confidently go onto and off one placeboard without hesitation. Do not rush ahead — the confidence your dog builds now will create the foundations for all the more advanced placeboard exercises later in the course.

Remember, we are looking for understanding and reliability, not just getting your dog onto the board. Take your time, reward the correct choices and allow your dog to learn at their own pace.