What are dog conditioning platform and how are they used?

Dog conditioning platforms

A dog conditioning platform is a tool used in dog training to help dogs learn new behaviours and reinforce existing ones. The platform is typically a raised surface, often made of wood or plastic, that the dog can stand on.

Examples include:

Place Boards 

Traditionally used in Gundog Training, but have useful applications in multiple disciplines

Labrador on an Anglian Dog Works Place Board
Buy yours: https://angliandogworks.com/products/dog-training-place-board

Position Boxes

Traditionally used in obedience and protection dog training, but useful whenever precise movements are required. 
Belgium Malinois using a Position Box from Anglian Dog Works
Buy yours: https://angliandogworks.com/products/position-box

The platform is used as a target for the dog to go to and stand on, and it can be used to teach a variety of behaviours, including:

  1. Sit-stay: The dog is trained to go to the platform and stay in a sitting position until released.

  2. Down-stay: The dog is trained to go to the platform and lie down until released.

  3. Targeting: The dog is trained to touch the platform with its nose or paw, which can be used as a foundation for more advanced behaviours.

  4. Heel position: The platform can be used to train the dog to stand in the correct position for heeling.

  5. Jumping: The platform can be used as a target for the dog to jump onto, which can be useful in agility training.

Using a conditioning platform in training can help the dog learn more quickly and can provide a clear target for the dog to focus on. It can also help the trainer to be more consistent in their training methods. However, it is important to note that the platform is just one tool in a trainer's toolbox, and should be used in conjunction with other positive reinforcement techniques.

 

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About the author: Hi 👋 I’m Emma, accredited as a professional dog trainer by the Institute of Modern Dog Trainers (IMDT). I help owners of energetic dogs achieve the dog-owning life they envisioned by providing robust obedience & agility training for dogs across my two venues in Balsham and Barton, near Cambridge.

Disclaimer: The content of this article does not include personalised advice and is for information purposes only. If you need individual advice or other enquiries please click here to get in contact or if you're not local to Anglian Dog Works, you can find a trainer in your area by going to the IMDT website: https://www.imdt.uk.com/find-a-qualified-imdt-trainer

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