Placeboard Retrieve

Placeboards can also be used to help develop your retrieving skills by creating a clear target area for your dog to return to.

Begin by standing at the side of the placeboard and sending your dog from the board. Once your dog has left the placeboard, move around so that you are positioned behind it.

When your dog returns, guide them back onto the placeboard using your hand and say “place”. This helps your dog understand that the placeboard is where they should return with the retrieve.

Once your dog is correctly positioned on the placeboard with the retrieve, continue with your usual delivery to hand training. Mark the correct behaviour with your clicker and reward as you normally would.

As with all placeboard exercises, focus on clarity and consistency. The placeboard is simply a tool to help your dog understand exactly what you are asking from them.

Build this gradually, reward the correct choices and remember that a confident, reliable retrieve comes from clear communication and repetition.