Associate each spoken label with a box in its own location.
Choose two labels
The Dogs Trust exercise uses two labelled boxes and favourite treats. Avoid a word already associated with another game.
Build the first route
Place one box a short distance away. Say its word while tossing a treat towards it. Call your dog back before repeating.
Next, gesture as if throwing, without food in that hand. When your dog reaches the box, throw the reward.
Battersea recommends prompt rewards for the desired action; have yours ready.
Add the second destination
Use a different location and word for the second box, repeating the food-then-gesture progression.
Reduce the gesture
Once each word sends your dog towards its corresponding box, gradually fade the arm signals. Praise and reward correct arrivals.
If learning becomes difficult, Blue Cross advises a break and a rethink before trying later.
This task concerns two named destinations. Resting on one bed has a separate routine.
