A complete crossing comes before its training label.
Prepare the passage
Dogs Trust begins with a large box opened at both ends, supported by dining chairs on either side. Choose one your dog can pass through easily; resolve unstable support before inviting them.
Invite a crossing
Make a treat trail through the passage. Let your dog follow; go slowly with encouragement if they hesitate. Mark and reward after they emerge, repeating until crossings are consistent.
Have the reward ready. Battersea recommends rewarding promptly when the intended action happens; here, reward the completed crossing.
Reduce guidance and add cues
Reduce the guiding treats. Add a distinctive two-hand gesture for this action, then a spoken cue. Dogs Trust places a longer agility tunnel after mastering this starter exercise.
Pause or finish
If learning becomes difficult, Blue Cross advises a break and a rethink before a later attempt. Do not push or pull your dog through.
For a different movement, see our crawl lesson.
