Platform requirements:

  • Low, stable platform

  • The “short” side of the platform need to be at least as wide as the distance between the dog’s back feet

  • No higher than the dog’s hock (i.e., ankle) height

  • Use a lower height platform in the beginning

Exercise:

  • Have dog side-step up/down the platform with back feet

What to do:

  1. Lure/cue dog to put their back feet onto the short side of the platform

  2. Mark + treat

  3. Lure/cue dog to side-step OFF the platform

  4. Mark + treat

  5. Lure/cue dog to side-step ONTO the platform

  6. Mark + treat

  7. Repeat steps 3-6 for both left and right sides

Progression options:

  • Increase number of side-steps

  • Combine front feet side-stepping with back feet side-stepping