Set Up for a Successful Outing

Before you take a dog on a training outing, be sure to review this list of reminders. This will help make sure every outing can be a successful one!

Preparation for a Training Outing

Make sure the dog is hungry! Do not feed a meal right before an outing. Instead, use a portion of their meal as training treats for the outing.
Some dogs may benefit from a short play session prior to the outing. It is important that the dog is not mentally tired before an outing. Mental exhaustion happens quicker than physical exhaustion.
Practice skills at home before attempting to use them on the outing.
Plan the location in advance and be sure it is appropriate for the age of the dog. You must be willing to leave.
Most importantly, remember that an outing is for training the dog and not for personal reasons.

Items to Take on an Outing

Travel to an Outing

Once You Arrive

The outing starts once you park the car. Try and find a parking spot near a grass or rock area.
The dog should wait to jump out of the car until you give permission.
Give the dog a chance to relieve themselves before you begin training. Puppies in training under 9 months should not potty in cape.
After the dog exists the car and eliminates, practice the cue “get dressed” and put the dogs equipment on. This will include the cape and head collar if the dog wears one.

During the Outing

Start it off successfully! Once you are ready to train at the location, pull off to the side for about 3-5 minutes to gain focus from the dog before continuing the outing. Plan to reward generously during this time.
Be willing to leave at any time if the dog gets overwhelmed- even better, try to leave before it gets to that point.
Stress quality over quantity. Ten minutes of focus and fun in the parking lot is better for you and the dog than an hour spent fighting for attention inside the store.

Things to Be Aware of in the Parking Lot

Keep the leash short and be extra careful when walking the dog in a parking lot.
Be aware of dangerous items on the ground such as broken glass or cigarette butts.
During the hot summer days, be mindful of the dog’s paw pads on the hot asphalt.
During the winter, be aware of salt on sidewalks. You may need to wipe the dog’s paws off once you have entered to prevent salt burns.
Never leave the dog unattended in the car.

Elevator & Stairs Etiquette

Elevators

Leave 7-10 feet between you and the elevator door as to not startle the dog if people come off
When the doors open, hold the door with one arm and allow the dog to move fully into the elevator to ensure their tail is through the doors
When riding the elevator, keep the dog standing to prevent their tail from getting stepped on. If the dog prefers to sit or lay down, back their tail up to a wall.
If people are on the elevator with you, you may need to body block to prevent the dog from greetings. If the elevator is too crowded, wait for the next one.
Use lots of cookies while the elevator moves to enforce a positive experience
When exiting, hold the door with one arm and allow the dog to move fully out of the door.

Stairs

Footer