Have you ever felt like your dog could use a little extra guidance in exciting, busy or stressful situations?
Enter the “middle” position — a simple yet powerful tool that helps keep your dog safe, secure, and focused on you.
Here’s why "middle" is one of the best life skills you can teach your puppy or dog:
- A safe haven: The middle position — where your dog stands between your legs, facing forward — can be a go-to for over-excited, anxious or shy dogs. It’s like a little safe bubble they can retreat to when the world feels a bit too much. Whether you’re at a crowded park or a noisy vet’s office, "middle" can offer them a sense of protection.
- All eyes on you: In “middle,” your dog has a job to do: to focus on you. When they’re standing between your legs, it’s easier for them to listen to what you’re asking. This can be especially handy in distracting environments where your dog might otherwise struggle to pay attention.
- Handy in crowds and busy places: Imagine you’re near a busy road, and there’s traffic whizzing by. Instead of worrying about where your dog is or if they might pull on the lead, you can cue “middle” and instantly have them in a safe, controlled spot. It’s a quick way to make sure you can keep them close when you need them to be.
- Confidence booster: For dogs that are naturally a bit more hesitant, the middle position can be a real confidence-builder. It’s their own portable safe space. It's also a way for them to experience new environments while knowing you’ve got their back! Over time, this helps them feel more secure in situations that might normally make them nervous.
How to teach your dog the "middle" position
Teaching the "middle" position is simple and fun!
It’s easy to learn because it uses basic luring with treats, and most dogs catch on quickly. Dogs enjoy it because they get to stay close to you, earn rewards, and it feels like a game. It’s a great way to bond with your dog and teach them a useful skill!
Watch the YouTube how to video now: https://youtu.be/MHHWiOvgiBU
The steps are easy to break down into small, manageable pieces, and the position feels natural for many dogs once they get the hang of it. This video takes you through each of the steps.
Work through them is short training sessions each one building on the one before.
So, whether you’re navigating crowds, managing distractions, or simply looking to strengthen your bond, this is a pawsome life skill that every dog should learn!
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