Dog Tricks: The Grapevine

The Grapevine is an advanced trick which may be confusing to both owner and dog in the very beginning. To make the learning process easier, and to avoid an evil headache, try teaching this technique to your dog in several segments. Master steps one through three, and then tackle the rest, one lesson at a time. Make sure to have fun with your dog, and leave the serious attitude for competitive obedience!

Before beginning this exercise, Georgia should be comfortably doing Figure Eights. The Circle Left/Right command speeds up the training session.

The Basics:

1. Have Georgia sit facing your left. Extend your right leg forward as if you're about to take a giant step.

2. With the treat in your right hand, encourage Georgia to go between your legs.

3. Make sure she comes all the way through so that your left leg is free to move.

4. Have Georgia follow your hand around in a half circle so that she is facing you from the right side.

5. Step forward with your left leg. Bring your left hand forward with the treat to meet your right hand.

6. Hide your right hand behind your back, and use your left hand to encourage Georgia to move through your legs and into a half circle so that she is facing you once more.

Tips:

-Before starting Grapevine training, try doing a few figure eights to loosen up your pooch.

-It helps if you divvy up this exercise into little segments instead of trying to get the entire routine down in one swallow. This trick can be difficult to learn, so in the beginning focus on baby steps, and don't forget to enthusiastically praise!

-If either you or Georgia get frustrated, feel free to stop the session, and go onto another activity. Only resume the lesson after you've 'freshened up'.

-Make sure you circle the dog far enough so that when she comes back to face you, she is not in the way of your moving leg.