Touch
The “touch” cue, where your dog targets their nose to your hand or an object, is incredibly versatile and can be used in countless ways. Practically, it’s great for redirecting attention away from distractions, starting a recall, teaching polite greetings, or guiding your dog into specific positions like by your side. It’s also helpful for loose leash training, managing reactivity, and building confidence in shy or fearful dogs.
Beyond everyday use, “touch” can evolve into more advanced skills like agility training, retrieving, or teaching your dog to press buttons or close doors. It’s a foundation for tricks like spinning, weaving, or jumping through your arms, and it’s even used in service dog tasks like alerting or guiding. By incorporating “touch” into training, you create a fun and effective way to build your dog’s skills while strengthening your bond.
How to Teach Your Dog to Nose Target or ‘Touch’ – American Kennel Club