Training Day 1- Boundary Flag Awareness
Perform three sessions on day 1, each training session lasting 10-15 minutes.
Goal:
To have your dog learn that the Boundary Flags and warning beep from the Collar Receiver define the new Boundary Area.
Setup:
- Begin training with Stimulation Level 2 and only increase if your dog does not respond to the Stimulation.
- Put a separate non-metallic collar on your dog’s neck ABOVE the Collar Receiver and attach a leash.
- Be sure the extra collar does not put pressure on the Contact Points.
- Have tiny pieces of treats that your dog will find desirable available.
- Have your dog’s favourite play toy available.
Steps:
- Begin by walking your dog on a leash in the Boundary Area. Calmly praise and talk to your dog, occasionally giving treats.
- Move toward the Boundary Flags (10A). Keep your mood happy and throw treats to the ground.
- With full control of your dog on a leash, toss a treat on the outside edge of the flags. As your dog enters the Stimulation Zone to receive the treat, he will begin to receive a mild Stimulation (10B). The longer your dog remains in the Stimulation Zone, the stronger the Stimulation will get.
- Allow him to stay in the Stimulation Zone for 2 seconds then gently help your dog back into the Boundary Area (10C). Immediately praise and offer him a treat as he enters the Boundary Area, even if you have helped with the leash. Wiggle a Boundary Flag to help your dog understand that the discomfort of the Stimulation happens around the flags.
- Repeat this process at the same Boundary Flag until your dog resists going into the Stimulation Zone.
- Aim to master 3-4 Boundary Flags per session. Make this FUN! Praise your dog if he quickly retreats or resists going into the Stimulation Zone.