I do not pretend to be an expert on training. I know the basics, I know the theories, but I still have yet to train my own dogs to even a leg of an obedience title. BUT, having said that, I owe this amazing command to Patty Ruzzo. Not too many people know about it, but it's become my mantra.

You've heard that the most basic command is the sit? Its not. . . it is for conventional trainers, but the best command for which you WILL use for all other commands is the "hand."

The hand? This command simply teaches your dog to target your left hand with his nose. You show him your palm, say "touch," and he bumps his nose against your hand.

What could possibly be useful about that? If this is the ONLY command you teach, you can maneuver your dog into any position you want. If it is totally reliable, you can use it as a recall. I've used it in teaching the sit, stand, stack, recall, finish, front, down, stay, jump, beg, see saw, tunnel, a-frame, dog walk, etc.

Training the "Touch"

The best thing about this command is that it is VERY easy. All you need is a dog, a hand and something yummy and smelly, such as jerky treats, cheese, or hot dog.

Rub a tiny bit of the bait on your hand and show it to your dog. As soon as he sniffs your hand, say "touch." Praise, feed him a bit, and release. Continue doing this until he begins to automatically touch the hand without the rubbing of the bait on your hand to scent it. DO NOT LET HIM LICK YOUR HAND. (Of course, he is in this photo)

This should take no more than two ten minute sessions to help your dog learn what you want. Then you can begin moving the hand around, trying to get your dog to follow and target your hand. The more you practice it, the more reliable his targeting will become.

I will supply the training of sit and heel to get you started, but once you've got it, the rest will come easily. (Whew!)

Sit: Simply maneuver your dog to your left side, and turn your palm facing down above his head.  Command the touch. In order to target your hand, he must sit. When he does, say "sit" and reward him. Repeat until he understands, and you've got it!

<Heel:  Now, from the sit, move your hand forward as you command the touch (although, by now, he should move to get your hand at the presentation of your palm), and move forward on your left foot. When he touches the hand and comes in line with your body, command "Heel," and give a bit of bait. Continue in the usual fashion.

Stock Dogs Conformation Obedience Agility Other Activities "Trained or not, he'll always be his own dog to a degree." - Carol Lea Benjamin Don't forget to take advantage of the other areas at this site! Can't find what you are looking for? Try using the search in the top right.