A “paw target” in dog training is a technique where the dog learns to place its paw on a specific target or object. This can be a mat, a target stick, or even a person’s hand. Paw targeting is useful for teaching various behaviors and commands, such as:
- Pawing at objects: Teaching the dog to open doors or press buttons.
- Positioning: Helping the dog understand where to place its paws for tricks or tasks.
- Focus and engagement: Encouraging the dog to pay attention to the trainer or a specific spot.
By using paw targeting, you can, for example, teach the dog to go to a specific location, open doors, or even perform more complex tasks like pressing a button. It is an effective and positive training method, as the dog is rewarded for the desired behavior.
When the dog has learned to target a specific tag (or another chosen object), this specific tag can be moved around to help the dog more easily perform paw targeting on new objects, places, and settings. The target tag is gradually removed so that the dog eventually associates the new object with the target behavior. The use of a learned target tag or stick helps the dog more easily transfer the target behavior to new objects and locations or settings.
DIY paw target tags
We use laminated (preferably square) paper slips when we want the dog to do paw targeting. This means keeping the paw on the slip. The fact that the same plastic slips indicate ‘keep your paw on the slip’ makes it easier for the dog to understand what kind of target it should offer. It’s quite simple to make different target pads and sticks yourself, but there are also different types available for sale.
