Dremeling: “One, Two, Three”

Counting Toes

"One, Two, Three"
Practice Goals

 

At first, please only practice for up to 2 minutes. As your dog gets very used to this, you can Dremel longer. As always be very attentive to your dog’s body language.

Is this the right fit for your dog?

 

For MANY dogs, “one, two” will actually be a better place to stay for a long time than “one, two, three.” Please only use “one, two’ three” if your dog really doesn’t mind.

  • Get your dog comfortable in position
  • Feed your dog a treat
  • Turn the Dremel On
  • Feed your dog another treat
  • Gently hold your dog’s foot, and isolate a nail
  • Say “one” as you touch the grinder to the nail for one second (retreat, mini pause)
  • Say “two” as you touch the grinder to the nail for one second (retreat, mini pause)
  • Say “three” as you touch the grinder to the nail for one second (retreat!)
  • Say “yes!” and feed your dog a treat
  • If your dog pulls their foot away but seems fine to proceed, take a break for 3 seconds, then try a different foot/toe.
  • If your dog doesn’t want to continue, give them a treat and end the practice.

Always remember to go at your dog's pace. Some steps will be slower than others, other steps will go quickly! Watch your dog for signs of stress or avoidance, and go back a step when needed. If your dog is doing well, stick with this step for several practices! If you take the time now to build positive experiences and associations, your progress will be solid.