Introduction
The army crawl is an impressive trick that also serves a functional purpose. It builds body awareness, strengthens core muscles, and provides mental stimulation. Perfect for dogs who need confidence building or those entering trick competitions.
Training Steps
Phase 1: Get Comfy on the Floor
- Ensure your dog has a solid "down" command
- Practice "down" with duration – build up hold time
- Get your dog used to staying in position while you move around
Phase 2: Lure the Movement
- Hold a treat close to your dog's nose
- Move it slowly forward along the ground
- The moment any forward movement occurs, mark with a clicker/word and reward
Phase 3: Shape the Full Crawl
- Gradually require more steps before rewarding
- Lower the treat closer to the ground
- Encourage hind leg movement as you shape
Phase 4: Add Duration and Direction
- Practice short distances first, then increase
- Try curved paths or specific targets
- Add a verbal cue once the behavior is solid
Pro Tip: Keep sessions short (5 minutes max) and always end on a positive note.
Troubleshooting
Dog won't move forward: Try starting from a "sit" and luring them down while moving forward, or use a different high-value treat.
Dog stands up instead: Reward the moment before they stand. Shape very gradually.
Dog gets frustrated: Go back to an earlier step. Progress takes time.
Product Recommendations
| Product | Why You Need It |
|---|---|
| Clicker | Perfect timing for shaping small movements |
| Treat pouch | Hands-free rewards during training |
| Puzzle feeder | Mental prep before trick sessions |
Final Thoughts
Army crawl training demonstrates patience and positive reinforcement principles. While it looks simple, the shaping process teaches both dog and handler valuable lessons about communication.
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