Hand target

Step by step

1. Step 1

   Present the target

   Hold an open hand a few centimetres from the nose. Mark any sniff or touch, then reward.

2. Step 2

   Move the target

   Change the hand position gradually so the animal takes one or two steps to touch it.

3. Step 3

   Add the cue

   Say ‘touch’ immediately before presenting the hand once the behaviour is predictable.

Troubleshooting

• Do not push the hand into the animal’s face.
• For cautious animals, reward looking at the hand before asking for contact.