Command Zigzag or Door

"Zigzag Through Your Legs" is a playful and challenging trick that stimulates your dog physically and mentally. It requires coordination and focus and is a great exercise to strengthen your cooperation and trust.

How to Teach Your Dog to "Zigzag Through Your Legs"

Start in a quiet environment: Choose a place without distractions where you can practice together.
Use a reward: Hold a treat or toy in your hand to guide your dog.
Give the command: Say "Zigzag" or "Through" as you lure your dog to one side of your legs with the treat.
Guide the movement: Lead your dog with the treat under one leg to the other side. Once he's on the other side, lure him under your other leg.
Reward after every movement: Use a marker signal such as "Yes" or "Good boy" and give your dog a reward after each successful slalom movement.
Repeat and refine: Practice the pattern several times until your dog performs the movement smoothly. Gradually add more repetitions before rewarding.
Add Speed: Once your dog understands the trick, you can increase the pace to make it more challenging and fun.

Tips for success

Start slowly: Get your dog used to the exercise and gradually increase the pace.
Use clear signals: Use your voice and hand gestures to guide your dog.
Make it playful: Reward your dog enthusiastically and keep the training light and fun.
Practice with variation: Try zigzagging while walking for a more dynamic exercise.

Why is 'Zigzag Through Your Legs' important?

This trick improves your dog's coordination, agility, and focus. It also strengthens your cooperation and communication, which is essential for further training. Moreover, it's a fun and interactive way to be active together.

Troubleshooting during training

Is your dog running past your legs? Use a stronger treat and move more slowly to guide him.
Is he losing focus? Practice in short sessions and take breaks if he gets distracted.
Is he having trouble finding his bearings? Use a leash to gently guide him into position.

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