Building Focus

It all begins with a look. When you get your dog’s eyes to meet yours, this is when you reward! Whether you use a treat, a toy, or just their name to bring their attention to you, reward them when they give you their focus. You do not need a particular cue to pair with this behavior, as it’s an expectation, though some people use the word “look,” “focus,” or their dog’s name. When I tell my dog to sit or heel, their focus is an expectation; I wait until I have their eyes looking up to me before I reward. Remember, the behavior you reward is the behavior you will receive.

When building the practice of getting your dog’s focus, you should begin indoors where there are less distractions. Focus is not just about their eyes looking to you, it’s about engaging with them. Build the practice of your pup looking to you for direction. While I often practice a focus drill in a stationary manner (having the dog sit, I reposition myself, then ask the dog to adjust themselves to face me again, sit and give their focus), adding movement can help build engagement.

In order to be successful in gaining and maintaining your dog’s focus, you need to be the most exciting thing to them! A yummy treat or their favorite toy can be a great reward to use in a focus practice to get your dog excited to look at you. But our dog’s also love our attention, whether it is verbal or physical praise (“Good boy” and pets), our attention can be the best reward. Tell me how you practice focus! And let me know if you are in need of assistance to build your focus and relationship with your dog.