Command Walk Backward

"Backing up" is a unique trick that helps your dog improve their body awareness and coordination. It's challenging and requires focus, but the result is an impressive skill that stimulates your dog both physically and mentally.

How to Teach Your Dog to "Walk Backwards"

1. Start in a narrow space: Choose a place like a hallway so your dog has fewer distractions and will naturally stay in a straight line.
2. Use a reward: Hold a treat or toy in your hand to guide your dog.
3. Give the command: Say "Back" or another word of your choice as you gently walk toward your dog. This will encourage him to move backward.
4. Reward small steps: Reward your dog immediately if he takes even one step back. Use a marker signal like "Yes" or "Good boy."
5. Refine the movement: Once your dog understands that he needs to walk backward, you can drop the treat and guide him only with your voice and body language.
6. Reward only on command: Make sure you only reward your dog when he backs away after you give the command. If he does it on his own, don't reward him.
7. Extend the distance: Practice with longer distances and add variety by introducing obstacles.

Tips for success

• Stay patient: Walking backward is not a natural movement for dogs and can take time to learn.
• Use a calm voice: Keep your tone calm and encouraging to reassure your dog.
• Work with short sessions: Practice regularly, but keep the sessions short to avoid frustration.
• Introduce obstacles: Once your dog has mastered the trick, you can increase the difficulty by adding pylons or cushions, for example.

Why is 'Walking Backwards' important?

This trick improves your dog's body coordination and focus and is a good exercise for mental stimulation. It can also be useful in situations where your dog needs to back up, such as through a narrow passage.

Troubleshooting during training

• Is your dog not backing away? Use gentle pressure with your body or a leash to guide him.
• Is he distracted? Start again in a quiet, distraction-free environment.
• Is he struggling with longer distances? Build it up slowly and reward every little improvement.

Want to show us how you teach your dog to "walk backward"? Send us a video explaining the training process and sharing your approach. Email your video to klantenservice@fidello.nl and receive €10 in store credit if your submission is published.