Following Hand Signals

You can now begin to ask more from your dog by developing their understanding of movement between placeboards and introducing the beginnings of directional work.

Return to using two placeboards positioned close together, with both boards facing towards you. Start with your dog on one placeboard and position yourself in front of, but between, the two boards.

Using a treat as a lure in your hand, guide your dog towards the second placeboard. As soon as your dog moves onto the board and sits, mark the behaviour with your clicker and reward.

This exercise is the beginning of teaching your dog to follow your hand signals. Your dog is learning to watch your body language and understand that your hand direction gives them information about where you want them to go.

Once your dog is confidently moving between the two boards, gradually increase the distance between them over a number of training sessions.

Remember to build this slowly. We are not just teaching movement between boards — we are developing a dog that watches you, listens to your cues and responds to your direction.

Take your time, reward the correct choices and continue to build a strong foundation for more advanced directional work.