In this video, Debbie Martin, co-author of Karen Pryor Academy’s (KPA) Puppy Start Right for Instructor’s course (PSRI), demonstrates how to condition a puppy to touch by performing a mock veterinary exam. This is one of the many essential concepts and exercises covered in the PSRI course, which prepares trainers to offer puppy socialization classes or one-on-one sessions.

Debbie begins by touching each part of the puppy’s body, following each touch with a treat. For example, she briefly holds the puppy’s tail, then removes her hand and offers a treat. Next, she gently holds the puppy’s ear before offering another treat. By pairing each touch with a reward, such as treats, the puppy starts to associate handling with positive experiences.

Once the puppy is comfortable with brief touches, Debbie increases the duration gradually, helping the puppy prepare for longer vet exams. This method ensures that the vet has enough time to inspect each area during a real examination without causing distress. If you notice signs of stress —such as freezing, pulling away, or tucking their tail —pause and lower your criteria to ensure the puppy remains comfortable.

Interested in growing your business by offering puppy classes and consultations? Karen Pryor Academy’s (KPA) Puppy Start Right for Instructors (PSRI) course provides trainers with a complete class curriculum packed with training exercises, essential tips on class organization, consultation formats, and management techniques. 

If you are a pet guardian with a puppy or thinking of getting a puppy, you can find a Puppy Start Right class near you here or pick up your copy of Puppy Start Right: Foundation Training for the Companion Dog here.

Happy (Puppy) Training!

The hand-targeting method can be adapted for various training scenarios, including group classes and one-on-one sessions. For dogs with more severe anxieties, additional steps, such as including desensitization protocols or gradual exposure, might be necessary. The keys are patience, adapting to each dog’s needs, and recognizing canine body language and stress signals.

In KPA’s Click to Calm for Instructors course, award-winning author and behavior specialist Emma Parsons teaches trainers how to effectively use the tools and techniques of the Click to Calm method to assist clients and their dogs, including how to introduce reactive dogs to new people safely. Here are some of the many considerations and steps that Emma teaches trainers in the course:

Preparation and set-up:

• Ensure the dog is proficient with hand targeting before introducing it in social scenarios.
• Choose a location (e.g., inside the home or outdoors) where the dog is typically sensitive to visitors.
• Create a comfortable space (e.g., a spare room or behind a barrier) for the dog to rest between sessions.
• Use proper training equipment (e.g., leash and harness, two-leash system).
• Consider enlisting the help of an assistant if needed.

Introduction process:

• Position the new person at a comfortable distance for the dog, adjusting based on the dog’s body language.
• Keep the introduction non-threatening, allowing the dog to observe and process the new person’s presence.
• Reward every successful hand target or calm interaction.
• Keep sessions short (5-10 clicks per exposure).
• Consider using a remote treat dispenser to promptly reward the dog and encourage repeated hand targeting.
• Monitor the dog’s response, adjusting distance or taking breaks if the dog shows signs of stress or discomfort.

If you are a dog guardian seeking solutions it’s important to consult with a qualified dog trainer if your dog exhibits any signs of reactivity. You can find one of our Certified Training Partners near you or available virtually by using our Find a Trainer tool. If you want to learn more about canine reactivity and the Click to Calm method,  check out Emma’s latest book, The New Click to Calm: Solutions for All Dogs in a Challenging World.

Happy Training!