Training Chain - Chin Rest · Dog Training Community

Training Chain - Chin Rest

I’ve been discovering lots of different ways to use a chin rest recently, so decided to make that the next challenge.

My videos don’t want to load today, so hopefully this explanation is clear enough. Feel free to ask questions if anything doesn’t make sense. I’ll try to add videos in the comments.

Step 1 - Luring

I find it works best to start with a larger target, rather than your hand for 2 reasons: it’s easier for the dog to get it right and you have both hands free. My usual choice is the seat of a chair, but you may need a lower item for smaller dogs. Start by luring the dog to bring their head over the target. At first, reward them even if their chin doesn’t fully touch. I like to reward in position then release and bring them back again.

Step 2 - Fading the Lure

Once they are consistently performing the behaviour, start to fade out the lure. The goal is for the dog to offer the behaviour themselves.

Step 3 - Introduce Verbal Cue

Each time the dog offers the behaviour, give your verbal cue before rewarding.

Step 4 - Transfer to Other Items

Once you have a strong verbal cue, you can transfer the behaviour to other items. To start with, cue ‘chin’ and point to the object. A useful second item is a chin rest to your hand.

Step 5 - Start Training Tricks!

There are lots of different ways to use a chin rest, so here are a few of my favourites:

Retrieve: Chin rest is a great tool for building a retrieve to hand. When the dog picks up the article, cue chin so they return to a steady position. Tilt your hand upwards to gain the high head position which some sports prefer.
Sad/guilty: A chin rest on the floor whilst the dog is in a down makes for a cute little sad face.
Hide head: Once you have a solid chin rest on a chair, you can introduce a pillow for the dog to hide under. Start by holding the pillow above the chair, and gradually lower it until the dog has to lift the pillow and rest their chin on the chair underneath.
Cooperative care: Gradually introduce movement of objects towards the dog’s head. This can then be used for skills like eye drops or cleaning ears.

Again, questions welcome, and I can’t wait to see your attempts!

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