Go In/Under: A Service Dog Must-Have

Service dogs must learn to tuck their bodies into whatever space is available–spaces often designed for your feet or handbag–under chairs, tables, displays, and desks. Your dog should remain invisible and unobtrusive while you shop, eat, or work.

Always look for a spot where your dog can be neatly tucked away.

Dogs who 'go in' won't be easily stepped on or distracted by members of the public, and are safely out of their reach while you are distracted.

Teach your dog to 'go in' by starting at home with the largest, most easily accessible piece of furniture. This might be a table or desk, or perhaps a chair if your dog is very small.

You'll begin by practicing luring them under by using a sweeping arm and perhaps treats in both hands so that your can lure them in with one arm and pass them to your other hand that reaches around the leg and to the back. It can also be helpful to have a partner encourage your dog from the other side.

Once they are comfortable going in, you can start adding the cue.

1: Cue 'go in' by standing next to the table and making a slight sweeping motion toward the floor.

2: Wait 2 seconds (this is the hard part)

3: Crouch down and lure them under. They should end up in a 'down' position, but we won't also cue 'down,' we will simply lure them down. Try to get your dog to turn toward you as they lie down, so their head peeps out and their tail is tucked safely underneath the object.

4: Say 'yes' and reward your dog from your hand. Once your dog is happily going in on cue, you can begin increasing your distance from the table and your dog's duration spent in position.

Dogs of all sizes need to learn this skill. Small service dogs can still accidentally trip someone, and it is our responsibility as handlers to ensure that our dogs are not a nuisance to the people around us. It is especially crucial on transit and other places where space is at a premium.

Now go forth, and go in!