The "Crawl" Trick: A Fun Training Adventure with Fleming
- olddogsnewhabits
- Apr 11, 2025
- 3 min read
Updated: Apr 14, 2025
As a dedicated dog owner and hobbyist trainer, I’m always excited to share my journey with my canine companion, Fleming. This post, we’re practicing a classic trick: the crawl AKA army crawl AKA sneak. Although Fleming has known how to crawl using my hand as a lure, our new goal is to get him to crawl on command from a distance. Join us!
New Trick or New Habit?
For us, this training isn’t about teaching an entirely new skill but establishing a new habit. Fleming has learned to associate the command "crawl" with low, belly-like movement towards me. Now, the challenge is to reinforce this behavior so he can perform it independently, even when I’m a few feet away.
Interestingly, the crawl is not just a fun trick but one that has real-world applications, particularly for working and service dogs. Herding breeds, like the Border Collie, often use a crawl to stay low while guiding livestock. Check out this video of them herding ducks, using the crawl to remain out of sight until they're needed. Our goal, while not quite as high-stakes, is equally satisfying.
5 Instances When the Crawl Can Come in Handy
Hunting Vermin: Crawling through tunnels, bushes, or under buildings to retrieve pesky critters.
Stealth Mode: Staying low to sneak from one side of the yard to the other without being seen by other pets or people.
Dinner Time Shenanigans: Crawling unnoticed under the dining table to snag that delicious dropped morsel (we know you’re eyeing that, Fleming!).
Tactical Rescue: A burst of imagination where your canine companion crawls under barbed wire to heroically save the day (so, John Wick, here’s your canine comrade!).
Stretch & Relax: A casual, long, stretchy crawl to enjoy the cool ground or grass.
My Hobbyist Lesson Plan
Goal: Teach Fleming to crawl to a target using just the verbal command when I’m standing further away.
Possible Oopsies!
From human:
Too much reliance on the treats to lure.
Using a visible lure when it should be an invisible reward.
Not giving Fleming enough time to catch on to the command.
From dog:
Not to bending his knees while crawling, resulting in an "up-butt" position.
Starting the crawl but not completing it to the target.
Not understanding what "crawl" means without a lure.
Equipment Needed for Training
A mix of treats
A clicker
A training mat (Fleming’s eagerness to perform is elevated on his mat!)
A camera and tripod (because capturing these moments is essential!)
Squeak ball and crinkle toy (for brain breaks – every dog needs fun!)
Trick Protocol
Keep the treat hidden but have it ready in hand.
Position Fleming in a down across from target.
Give the command "crawl."
Click or verbal mark, Fleming’s movement when he crawls low towards the target.
Reward him immediately for the successful crawl.
Send him back to the starting position and repeat steps 1-5 for about five successful attempts.
Take a break by switching to a different trick. Repeat steps 1-5 five times.
End the session with a squeaky or crinkle toy for fun, followed by some water.
Review and Corrections
For Fleming, the crawl is a familiar trick; we've been refining it since last year. I’ve fallen into the habit of having him follow my hand or treat as a lure, which means breaking my habit is key to encouraging him to crawl on without a visible treat.
While he's great at going low, we are working on perfecting that posture – getting his knees to bend more and keeping his hips down as he moves. It’s crucial that we’re both engaged and patient. Should we feel frustrated, we pause, reassess, and always aim to finish on a successful note. By encouraging timely marking and reward when he successfully crawls, we build his confidence!
Conclusion: Let's Get Crawling!
This experience not only strengthens our bond but also turns training into an enriching adventure. Remember, it's all about patience, practice, and positive reinforcement. Just as we old dogs are building a new habit; we still have corrections and growth to make. Each moment spent together is an opportunity to grow and learn. So, keep the consistency to build momentum!
We encourage you to dedicate just 15 minutes, 1 to 2 times a day, to practice this lesson plan with your furry friend. You’ll be amazed at the motivation and joy that will come from these sessions. Celebrate each small victory and relish the fun you have together!
Now, it’s your turn! Grab those treats, get ready to crawl, and watch your pet shine! Share your progress with us and let’s keep growing together. Thanks for growing with us! 🐾
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