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Training your dog to use Otto Step is very easy and may be the easiest training you will ever do.
Most dogs take to Otto Step very naturally, they want to go for a ride, they usually will take the
easiest way in and up. Once they use Otto Step and find its safe and easy, they will wait for you to
insert the step so they can go for a “Ride”. Others may be hesitant and will need some help in getting
comfortable with a new device such as Otto Step or a ramp.
Most importantly, dogs respond very well to
praise. By showing praise and
rewards for correct
behavior you will help create a habit that will last forever. Your pet will be a
happier pet as well as you
will be a happier person, knowing you are doing the right thing, teach, reward
and praise.
To start, let your pet see Otto Step before you install it into your hitch
receiver. Let them get used to
the smell, might have a little Otto in the scent! Then, simply insert Otto Step
into your hitch receiver,
again, let them smell of the step, you might sit on the step yourself and just
let them get comfortable
and used to the idea that this is where it may go.
You can then use the step yourself by getting
into the vehicle, they will see your entry and may just
follow. Again, most dogs are quite
smart and will take the easiest route into the vehicle. I have sold
many steps to dog owners and watched their dog use Otto Step on first entrance
into their vehicles.
However; there will be a very small percentage that may see Otto Step as an
obstacle to jump over. In
this case, you will want to leash your dog, ad a treat to the step, praise them
for getting onto the step,
and let them gradually enter the vehicle. Praise again and again.
Just remember to reward and praise after every positive move into the vehicle.
Another suggestion is
to add another person on the other side of the step to help discourage your dog
jumping around Otto
Step. Again, they are very smart animals and will take the easiest route into
the vehicle.
This type of coaxing should only happen the first time your pet uses Otto Step,
again; they are very
smart animals and soon your pet will be waiting for you to insert Otto Step so
he/she can enter the
vehicle.
VERY important -- please train your
pet to use Otto Step coming out of the vehicle.
Once they use the
step going in, they will naturally use it getting out as well. However; some
younger dogs like to jump
and may try to jump over the step. Again, add another person on the other side
of the step, insert your
step before you open the back of your vehicle and Fido will naturally come down
using Otto Step.
Remember, a healthy pet is a happy pet and anything we can do to prevent our
best friend from
injuries caused from jumping down from high places is not only going to give you
great satisfaction but
you will know you are helping maintain a healthy and safe life for Fido. Praise,
Praise and more Praise!
Debra Rudzik
Otto Step Inc.
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