Once your dog is targeting the specified cone reliably, you can add the cue “left” or “right.” For the remaining cue, repeat using the second cone. As your dog becomes confident targeting the cones on cue from a short distance, increase the distance and, eventually, fade out the use of the cones.

In this video, KPA CTP Aimee Bonnain and her dogs demonstrate left and right cues out on a hike! For more information about how to get started teaching your dog fun and useful concepts for work, sport, or daily living, check out KPA’s Concept Training course series!