Is there a "best" way to teach the "behind me" command? Is this something that's done with a clicker or is there another way?

I've never read how to do this before but twice this week in the discussions about people and children mauling your dog someone has mentioned the "behind me" command.

Sounds like a good thing to teach!

 Quote: Brenda Mitchell

Is there a "best" way to teach the "behind me" command? Is this something that's done with a clicker or is there another way?

I've never read how to do this before but twice this week in the discussions about people and children mauling your dog someone has mentioned the "behind me" command.

Sounds like a good thing to teach!

Bob Scott helped me with this one, which I admit that I didn't find the easiest command for me to teach at first.

Anyway, I used high-value treats, starting with the dog standing facing me, and I first lured the dog into position with the treat, immediately marking and rewarding. Then I slowly (very slowly) introduced duration, then distraction.

It was like teaching any other position, except that I was so awkward with luring and rewarding behind my back.

 Quote: Connie Sutherland

It was like teaching any other position, except that I was so awkward with luring and rewarding behind my back.

Awkward? more like frightening, I'm middle-aged, I don't want to look back there .

Other than the recall (which is a whole other ball game) I have taught only two directional commands, "there" for positions near me and "over there" for positions away from me. I used a target stick to train which can be a stick, broom handle, pole etc. First I taught the dog to touch the end of the stick with his nose which is a breeze since most dogs will sniff anything you put in front of their faces. Touch, mark, reward. Once that was established. I began to bring the stick in near me in all directions right, left, back, front and added the "there" command. I eventually faded the stick and just use my finger pointing close to my body where I want him.

For "over there" I already had a dog who knew how to target the stick, so all I needed to do was extend my arm and the stick to its full extent and practice "over there" (he does not confuse the two) in all directions. Again I faded the stick and use my extened arm and pointing finger to indicate what direction I want him to go. All phases of this were taught with markers. I hope this helps.

That sounds really good.

I will remember that (maybe I will .... I am maybe a tad past middle age ) for the next dog.

Thanks, I'll try them both! Sounds like fun, actually.

Awkward? more like frightening, I'm middle-aged, I don't want to look back there

Too much junk in the trunk for your liking Sheila? LOL

No it's the "Renoir Effect" and it only can happen to mature women (men) who have properly aged and matured...........it's a sign of codgerdom and much wisdom. It does have some disadvantages though.....
(toungue in cheek)