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Originally Posted by kjc  Aw! Poor Max! Lol! For dogs with balance issues, this trick can first be taught with a wall behind the dog, or with the dog between your feet using your lower legs to balance against. I always have my hands ready to assist, some will put a paw on my hand for balance in the beginning. After a few times (or more, regular practice) their muscles will develop and they'll be able to sit up on their own.
The main problems in younger dogs under 1 year (I think) of age occur with high impact tricks... in agility training over jumps and such. Also in teaching a handstand too early. |
Very good suggestion about using the wall.
Max had powerful legs and great body presence from the start, but just wasn't a natural for the sit pretty trick. He could stand upright on his hind legs in place easily. He could also go from a seated position to jumping into our laps on the couch seemingly without flexing a muscle.
Instead of sit pretty, he does the Karate Kid when he wrestles Teddy
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karate kid.JPG