Rover demonstrating BOW.
Foreword: Bow is a pretty easy trick, but
looks impressive!
Directions:There are two ways to teach this trick. You must
decide which will be the best for your Rover.
BOW for the food crazy Rover: Since your Rover will jump
off a plane to get that little doggy treat, this version should
be pretty easy to teach. Start by getting those yummy treats!
Next, have Rover stand while you kneel next to him. Now take that
treat and hold it between Rovers front paws. Hopefully, Rover
will now look down and try to get the treat. If Rover doesn't
respond to the treat, move on to the other version.
Once Rover starts to reach for the treat, pull your hand slightly
back, so Rover must look in between his legs. To keep his
balance, Rover should now BOW. Give him the treat! Now repeat it
until Rover goes into the BOW position faster. Meanwhile, you
should be saying BOW every time he BOWS.
If Rover lays down instead of bowing, gently put your hand on
his tummy while Rover is standing. This should keep him from
laying down.
BOW for the food picky Rover: If you have one of those
Rover's who just won't respond to those yummy doggy treats
(including mine) you have to try this version. Start by
kneeling next to Rover with one hand on Rovers shoulder and the
other supporting his tummy. Now say BOW and gently apply pressure
from the hand that's on Rovers shoulder. Repeat this, saying
BOW every time and rewarding Rover for being forced into the
position. Once he starts getting it, you won't have to apply so
much pressure anymore. This should get Rover into the BOW
position, but if your working with a BIG Rover, here is another
version to try.
BOW for the food picky BIG Rover: Well, since BIG Rover
just won't budge using the above methods, here is another version
to try. Kneel next to BIG Rover and put one hand on his tummy
and the other on his forelegs. Now say BOW, and grab his front
legs and gently pull them forward until he is in the BOW position.
Now praise and try it again. Be gently though, or BIG Rover will
protest.
Conclusion: I hope one of these versions is right for
your Rover!
Link back to my dog place.