Sometimes it's just one stupid movement and the back is stiff and aching. Putting on shoes then becomes an unpleasant affair.
For whatever reason, when we can't bend over, we drop more than usual. This is also because our natural body tension decreases. We stumble more and drop more. Why not teach your dog to pick up dropped objects on command?
One more thing...
Ever tried to leash a dog with real back pain? It's pretty stupid. Bending over, especially with small dogs, becomes almost impossible.
A little assistance dog training can't hurt your pelt-nose either. How nice it would be if the dog could pick up the key or hop up on a tree trunk and then push itself up on you so you can leash it.
That's how it works!
Important! Always work in partial steps so that your dog understands what you expect of him.
- Throw favourite toy and give command (doesn't work? Then practise with leash, lure and fetch) Reward!
- Throw favourite toy, dog must wait, command bring. Point to the toy. Reward!
- Second command. "Hand" (or one of your choice). The dog should put the toy in your hand. (Attention, practise in partial steps). The closer the dog comes and touches the hand, the better. Reward!
- Add other objects. A knotted old towel, socks, other things the dog can easily grasp with its mouth. Point to the objects you have put down before, "Bring" and "Hand" and reward.
- With a little time, really smart dogs will also learn to differentiate. "Bring key", "Bring shoes", "Bring ball".
- Don't let your dog pick up anything that is unpleasant or dangerous for him. You can tie a small rope to the collar of the bowl, for example.
And the leash?
Teach your dog to jump on command onto a chair, a stone, a tree trunk or whatever is high and stable enough. Since this is not always feasible or sufficient, teach your dog to "jump" on you on command. Of course, this does not mean a rowdy fidgeting. The dog stands on its hind legs and leans on you with its front paws so that you don't have to bend down as much.
And here, too, don't forget the reward. Suitable treats and other aids are available at DOGSTYLER®. Take the opportunity to shop and get advice?