Training Exercises

WATCH

Stage 1	With your dog sat in front of you (you can be standing or sat in a chair) show him a food treat in your hand and then outstretch your arm to the side. Your dog should now be staring at your hand. Remain still & silent but be ready to deliver the food treat at the very instant that your dog looks at your face. Repeat this until you think he's got it.
Stage 2	Adding the command. Position your arm. Command 'watch' and reward him when he makes eye contact.
Stage 3	Maintaining the eye contact. As stage 2 but delay delivery of the reward for 1 second. Repeat as necessary building it up 1 second at a time. Aim for 10 seconds at least (eventually). If your dog looks back at your hand before you give the reward then start counting again from the restart of eye contact. Praise your dog quietly whilst he is watching you.
Stage 4	Removing the signal. Show your dog a food treat, the put your hand behind your back or neutrally by your side, command 'watch' and reward instantly. Now as stage 2 but without the outstretched arm, just the verbal command.
Stage 5	Teach him now to watch you whilst sat beside you at heel, whilst walking at heel, whilst waiting as you move away etc. etc.