Training your blind dog will give her confidence and help alleviate depression, dependency and fear. Proper training will also make it easier, and safer, for your blind dog to participate in everyday activities with you.
Teaching the "Slow" Command
Step One
Use this command to alert your dog that she's about to bump into something.
Step Two
Put your dog on a leash.
Step Three
Apply gentle pressure to the leash (avoid jerking) when your dog begins to walk.
Step Four
Give the command "Slo-o-w" or "E-e-easy" at the same time.
Step Five
Say "Yes" to your dog the instant she slows down.
Step Six
Give your dog a food treat and lots of praise.
Teaching the "Wait" Command
Step One
Use this command if your dog is in a dangerous situation, such as when you encounter terrain changes during a walk, or when you open the front door to go out, cross a street, or get out of your car.
Step Two
Put your dog on a leash.
Step Three
Give the command "Wait" ("Wa-a-ait") while applying steady and gentle pressure on the leash until the dog stops.
Step Four
Say "Yes" when your pet stops, and give a food treat and praise.
Step Five
Release your dog from this command before allowing her to move on. To do this, use the command "OK" in a bright, reassuring tone.
Tips & Warnings
Do not teach the "slow" and "wait" commands together. Make sure your dog knows the "slow" command first.
Teaching the "Sit" and "Down" Commands
Step One
Give the command "Sit."
Step Two
Place a tasty-smelling food treat right next to your dog's nose and mouth at the same time.
Step Three
Keep the food treat close to your dog's nose and slowly take the treat up and over its head. Doing this will lead your dog into a sit.
Step Four
Say "Yes" the instant your dog sits, and give her a food treat and praise.
Step Five
Start your "Down" command by first giving your dog the "Sit" command.
Step Six
Hold a food treat close to your pet's nose, then give the command "Down."
Step Seven
Take the treat slowly down to the ground between your dog's legs. This should lead your dog into the down position.
Step Eight
Say "Yes" when the trick is accomplished, and give your dog treats and praise.
Tips & Warnings
1. When teaching "sit" and "down," hold onto the food treat while your dog nibbles to lure her into position.
2. "Down" is a difficult command to teach because it is a position of vulnerability for the dog. Be patient and try this over and over until you both get it right.