Introduction

My favorite aspects of training are skills that move beyond basic obedience by actually teaching our dogs how to think and predict appropriate behaviors. One behavior that requires special attention is the way our dogs approach and pass through doorways or other thresholds (gates, landings, patios, boundaries in the yard, crosswalks, etc.) 

Why Threshold Manners Matter?

Threshold manners refers to the appropriate behavior displayed by dogs when passing through doorways or entering and exiting confined spaces. Teaching your dog to wait politely instead of barging through can address a range of issues, including:

1. Safety Concerns: An obedient dog that waits before crossing a threshold is less likely to dart into dangerous situations, such as busy streets or unfamiliar territory.

2. Impulse Control: Threshold training fosters self-control and impulse management in dogs, which translates to improved behavior in other areas of their life.  

3. Respectful Social Interactions: Polite door behavior is especially crucial when welcoming guests, as a well-mannered dog won't jump on visitors or create chaos upon entry.

4. Overall Obedience: Learning threshold manners enhances your dog's overall obedience and responsiveness to commands.

5. Leash Pulling: If your dog bolts out of the doorway to begin a walk, you have set the tone for your entire walk.  Conversely, if they are looking to you for guidance and direction in those transition moments, you have set yourself up for success.  

Training Techniques for Threshold Manners

• Start Indoors: Begin training indoors, where distractions are minimal, and your dog is more familiar with the environment. Use a leash and treats during early stages to reinforce positive behavior.

• Use Basic Commands: Before approaching the doorway, ensure your dog is familiar with basic commands like "sit," "stay,".  Eventually, simply touching the door handle will become the command. 

• Leash Training: Keep your dog on a leash when approaching the doorway. Stand in front of the door with your dog by your side. Wait Command: Command your dog to "sit" while you hold the doorknob. Open the door slightly, and if your dog remains seated, reward them with praise and a treat.

• Back to Start: If your dog lunges or tries to pass through, close the door and take a step back. Repeat the process until your dog understands that moving forward without permission results in delayed access.

• Release Cue: Introduce a release cue like "break" or "free" to indicate that your dog can now cross the threshold.  If you began using a release cue when you worked on The Place Command in our previous blog, use the same command here. Initially, only use this cue when your dog is calm and patient.

• Gradual Progression: Gradually increase the difficulty by adding distractions and practicing with the door fully open or in different locations.

• Consistency and Positive Reinforcement: Consistency is key. In the beginning, reward your dog every time they display polite behavior at the threshold. Over time, they will associate good manners with positive rewards. Very soon, the release will be the reward.

• Proofing: You can proof this behavior by stepping through the doorway yourself.  We want to make sure the dog understands that the release word or command is what allows them to move through the threshold rather than you stepping through. 

Watch this in action in the following video from trainer, Tom Davis:

Threshold Training with Tom Davis

Where Else Does This Apply?

If we generalize this behavior, your dog will start to look to you for guidance and direction in a multitude of transitions.  This can be used when getting out of the car, crossing the street, stepping off of a patio, etc.  

I also use furniture as a threshold.  We will have a longer discussion about some instances when it might not be the best idea to allow dogs on the furniture, but one way to allow them access is with permission.  Training this works exactly the same way as threshold manners.  If all of these things are coming through you, your dog will more willingly look to you for guidance and direction in other situations. 

Keep it Fun! Keep it Short!

Mastering threshold manners in dog training is an essential skill that not only ensures your pet's safety but also promotes respectful and controlled behavior in various situations. By investing time and effort in teaching your dog to wait politely at doorways, you strengthen your bond, enhance obedience, and create a more harmonious living environment for both your family and your beloved canine friend. Remember, patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement are the keys to success.