Position speed rounds for dogs: how to play

Sit, down, stand, sit: how many clean position changes can your dog do in 30 seconds? Puppy push-ups as a race.

You'll need

Your dog should know sit, down and stand on cue. Play on carpet or grass.

Say "Sit", reward. "Down", reward. "Stand", reward.
Do this slowly 3 times so your dog warms up.
Now start a 30-second timer.
Cue position changes as fast as your dog can do them cleanly. Reward every second or third change.
Stop at 30 seconds and count.
Rest for a minute. Try one more round to beat the score, then stop.

Make it easier: Use only sit and down, and reward every change.
Make it harder: Add distance: cue from 2 metres away, or with your back turned.

Snappy movements and eagerness to keep going.

Slow or sloppy positions, lying down and not getting up, panting heavily. Rest or stop.

Skip for puppies under a year and for dogs with joint or back problems; position changes work the hips, knees and back.
Soft surface only.

Written from these sources and checked against vet and trainer guidance. General guidance, not veterinary advice.

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