Teaching your dog to accept being handled

At a show, the judge needs to be able to examine its body and teeth. This learning is prepared calmly, well before going into the ring. It will also be useful for grooming and vet visits.

The aim: for your dog to feel confident when someone touches it.

Beginner — Building confidence

1. Start with an easy touch

Choose an area your dog readily accepts, such as the shoulder. Touch it briefly, take your hand away, then give a small reward.

The little game: “One touch, one nice surprise!” Repeat it a few times, without trying to examine the whole dog.

2. Break each action into steps

For a paw, simply start by bringing your hand close. Then work on the touch, then a very brief hold.

To try: move on only when the previous step is comfortable. If your dog pulls its paw away, simplify rather than holding on to it. This progress can take several days or weeks.

3. Watch its reaction

A dog that is still is not necessarily relaxed. A body that freezes, tense lips, a sideways glance or a growl can signal discomfort.

Your reflex: stop the movement and resume later at an easier step. Don't punish the growl: it is telling you that the situation is becoming difficult.

Intermediate — Preparing the examination movements

1. Get it used to contact near the mouth

Start by briefly touching the side of the muzzle. When it is comfortable, lift a lip slightly, then release and reward.

To try: work on one small movement at a time. Don't hold the head still and don't force the mouth open. Ask a handling instructor to show you how to present the teeth.

2. Explore the other areas gradually

Get your dog used to being touched on the ears, paws, belly and tail. Leave the most sensitive areas for later.

Your mission: identify the easy touches and those that need more preparation. A new sensitivity or a painful reaction deserves a vet's opinion.

3. Add a trusted person

Accepting your hand doesn't yet mean accepting a stranger's. Ask a calm person to repeat the actions it has already mastered.

To try: start with a single touch on the shoulder, then reward. Your helper follows your pace and stops if the dog becomes uncomfortable.

Advanced — Getting closer to ring conditions

1. Link handling to standing

First teach your dog to stand on a signal. Then add a very brief touch.

To try: ask for “stand”, have a shoulder touched, then release and reward. Gradually increase the duration, without using the lead to hold the dog still.

2. Prepare for the appropriate examination surface

Depending on the breed, the presentation may call for an examination on a raised surface. Ask your club how your dog will be examined.

To try: if a table is needed, use stable, non-slip equipment, with competent help. Stay close to the dog and prevent any fall; never leave it alone up high.

3. Do a short rehearsal with an instructor

A handling class lets you prepare for examination by someone else and check your technique.

Your goal: a dog that is comfortable during a short sequence, then a break. For a male, ask in particular how to gently prepare for the examination of the testicles. If your dog shows persistent fear or is at risk of biting, get support before continuing.

How do you know if you're making progress?

Your dog keeps a supple body, accepts the touches and willingly stays near you after a break. You can then add a small challenge.

If it tenses up or tries to move away, go back a step. The right speed is the one at which it stays comfortable.

These exercises are educational suggestions: they do not replace individual guidance and are not a method imposed by any regulation.