To stack an American Bully, you will need to follow a step-by-step process that involves teaching your dog various commands and adjusting their positioning. Here is a detailed explanation of each step:
1. Click and reward for standing: Begin by clicking and rewarding your dog whenever they stand up on all four legs. This will help them understand that standing is a desired behavior.
2. Teach “Backup”: Next, teach your dog the command “Backup.” This command will help your dog understand how to move their hind legs backwards. Start by standing in front of your dog and gently applying pressure to their chest. As soon as they take a step back, click and reward. Repeat this process until your dog understands the command.
3. Teach “Step” to align front legs: To ensure proper alignment of your dog’s front legs, teach them the command “Step.” Start by standing next to your dog and gently applying pressure to their shoulder. As soon as they take a step to the side, click and reward. Repeat this process until your dog understands to align their front legs with the command.
4. Teach the command “Stack”: Once your dog understands “Backup” and “Step,” you can introduce the command “Stack.” This command will signal your dog to assume a stacked position, where their front and back legs are aligned and they stand still. Use a treat to lure your dog into the desired position, and as soon as they are in the correct position, click and reward.
5. Adjust foot positions: After your dog understands the command “Stack,” you may need to adjust their foot positions to achieve the perfect stack. Gently manipulate their front and back legs, rewarding them for maintaining the correct position.
6. Teach maintenance of stack position: work on teaching your dog to maintain the stack position for longer periods of time. Gradually increase the duration before clicking and rewarding, ensuring your dog remains still and balanced.
Remember to be patient and consistent throughout the training process. It may take time for your American Bully to fully understand and master the stack position. Practice regularly and reward them for their progress.