Target Counting Method for Dogs

Target Counting Method for Dogs

 Your four-legged friend is capable of many things, including being trained on how to count. You may be surprised at how simple it is to teach your dog how to complete this task. Keep in mind that conceptual training such as this should include positive reinforcement. You need to reward your dog for its abilities! There are many ways to teach your dog how to count, but this article will give you step-by-step instructions on using the Target Counting Method.  

  1. Items – The first step is choosing the items you will use to count with your dog. Think of things like toys or treats (if your dog has self-control).
  2. Targets – Use an electronic target that says the number aloud or a simple piece of paper with the number written on it. Place the target on the floor. Show your dog the toy you will use for the number one count. Then say the word “one.”
  3. Count Command – Ask your dog, “how many?” as you repeat the process from the step above. As you ask how many, show your dog the item, tap the item to the target and say the number “one.” Give your dog a treat when it acknowledges the treat and the object.
  4. Target Training – Your dog needs to acknowledge the target and not just look at it. You may be wondering how your dog will recognize the target. They do so by touching it with their paw or sniffing it with their nose.
  5. Additional Items – Add a second item and a target with the number two on it to your training mix. Practice with both targets and only one toy expecting your dog consistently to choose the target that says number one. Introduce the second toy and touch both toys to the target, saying number two.
  6. Repetition – Repeat the steps above with two items and targets, one and two. This step will take a lot of practice and patience. Your dog should be able to touch target one or two, depending on how many items you present to them.

As your dog masters target counting, you can add additional items to the training mix. Counting is not an easy task, but they will do well once they get it! A little patience and a lot of consistency go a long way!