Continuing our practice with Willow, we started out by “loading” up a positive reinforcement word, YES. When a dog is exhibiting good behavior, give a short clear YES without reaching for a treat, wait a moment or two, and then reward. Repeat in mildly rapid succession 20 times.

We continued with YES, practicing sit.Still no touching or asking to approach. 10 reps of sit-yes-reward.

Then we worked on toouch (nose to palm). Place treat in hand between 2 fingers so it’s visible and attractive, but that’s not the reward. Ask a dog to touch your palm with her nose for a quick YES and then reward from the other hand.

Repeat yes loading 10 times before leaving.