CIA Training Tools: Hoop Commands

The following exercises use a hula-hoop, whereby this simple toy is transformed into a wonderful training tool. Below are examples of teaching commands through games while you and your puppy have fun. Using a hula-hoop is also a great way to involve kids.

"In" and "Out" commands

This is useful when taking your dog through doorways or leading in or out of the crate (any confined area that will be her special place in your home/apartment).

Place the hoop securely on the ground between your legs. If your puppy is on your left side, hold the hoop with your left hand and lure the puppy through the hoop with the right hand holding a motivator (a treat or toy; see book for more details). If your puppy is on your right side, hold the hoop with your right hand and lure your puppy through the hoop with the left hand holding the motivator.

As your puppy goes through, give the command "In" and then place her in a "Sit" position. Upon passing through from the opposite side, state the command "Out" and again place her in the "Sit" position. Depending on the temperament and attention span of your dog, successfully repeat the "In and Out" sequence at least 3 times before moving on to another command.

Practice several times a day in five-minute sessions until your puppy understands the movement and performs without any hesitation three times in a row.

The "Hup" command.

This builds on the "In and Out" command. For example, it can be useful when giving your puppy permission to jump into your car, to avoid obstacles, or to hop onto the Vet's scale.

Once your puppy can go "In" and "Out" of the hoop with ease, begin to raise the hoop height in small increments so she can jump through it. Hold the hoop securely between your knees and do not raise it more than six to twelve inches maximum, depending on her age and size. When your puppy jumps through the hoop, give the "Hup" command. Again, depending on the temperament and attention span of your dog, successfully repeat the "Hup" sequence at least 3 times before moving on to another command.

Practice several times a day in five-minute sessions until your puppy understands the movement and performs without any hesitation three times in a row.

"Leave it" command.

Dogs, especially puppies, are always putting objects into their mouths. This important command comes in handy when you spot an undesirable object before your pup picks it up. The object may be discarded food, horse manure, or a lollypop held in a child's hand.

You play this game by laying the hoop on the floor and placing a treat in the center. The area inside the hoop is the area you want to keep your pup out of. Make sure your pup is on a leash with enough length to physically prevent her from getting inside the hoop to the treat. As your puppy starts to go for the treat, say "Leave it" as you clap your hands to startle her. Simultaneously stepping on the leash will stop her in her tracks. You are teaching her to obey a barrier, a dog-free zone so to speak.

Applying the "Leave it" command while she is in an excited state will create a strong impression on her - she learns that she can't go for something regardless of how tempting it may be. Another bonus of the "Leave it" game is an increase attention span.
Practice this as you have the previous commands.

"Wait" and "Stay" commands.

The "Wait" command is used when you want your dog to pause temporarily, yet immediately for a short period of time. The "Wait" command is used to quickly stop your dog's movement. This command is critical for avoiding a biker, in-line skater, or other moving object.

Your mission is to train this command slowly by adding time in five-second increments. You must be sensitive to your puppy's temperament and her ability to focus. The "Wait" command is the building block of the "Stay" command.

The "Stay" command is used when a dog does not leave a set position for an indefinite period of time - minimum of two minutes. Since you need to build the "Stay" command slowly, start by working in 30-second blocks. It is particularly useful for safety at traffic lights, to avoid an unwelcome "welcome" when guests arrive at your home or any prolonged period where your dog needs to remain in one place.

Training this command also aids in the prevention of separation anxiety by increasing the puppy's patience level. To teach either of these commands, lay the hoop flat on the floor and place your puppy in the center. A dog can sit, stand, or be in a down position during the "Wait" and "Stay" commands. Give the position command first (i.e., stand, sit, down). Once she has obeyed, add the "Wait" or "Stay" command.

Walk a short distance away from the hoop or around the hoop. The goal is for the puppy to remain where placed. If she jumps up to follow you, gently lead her with the motivator back to the center of the hoop and again give the command.

Don't lose patience if your pup follows you; it is natural in the beginning for her to want to follow you. Repetition is part of the training pattern. It is important to be aware of the time, so that you give your puppy a fair chance to succeed.

When it is time to release her just say " Free", "Go play" or " Go be a dog."