Proximity Zone Game

Full Class Instructions and Demonstration

Watch the video below to see Linda and Ruby show the Proximity Zone Game which is an “upgrade” to the orientation game from last week!

Quick Notes

🐾 Proximity Zone Game (Week 2) — Quick Notes

• Introduces movement from the handler while building engagement with your dog.

• Teaches your dog that staying close to you is rewarding.

• Helps build connection, attention, and follow behavior.

How to Play

• Start with your dog near you.

• Toss a treat on the ground for your dog to get.

• As your dog finishes the treat and turns back toward you:

  • Take one small step.

  • Toss another treat.

• Repeat the process, gradually increasing movement.

• Progress from:

  • One step → two steps → slightly more movement.

• Allow the dog to reward themselves from the ground (no need to feed by hand).

Class Experience

Practice at home!

Now it’s time for you to try with your puppy, remember that movement is the key to this exercise!

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More Discussion

Additional tips and content

Key Training Principles

• Focus on good timing when rewarding.

• Begin with very little movement.

• Gradually increase distance only as your dog succeeds.

• Encourage your dog to repeatedly turn back and re-engage with you.

• The goal is for your dog to think: “Following my person is a good thing.”

What NOT to Do

• Do not run away from your dog in the beginning.

• Avoid large or sudden movements early on.

• Keep movement small and controlled while learning.

Training Progression

• Start sessions with the Orientation Game (handler stationary) as a warm-up.

• Then move into the Proximity Zone Game with movement.

• Over time, your dog will begin to follow you quickly and stay close.

• Eventually your dog may run to catch up as you move away.

Why It Works

• Builds engagement through play.

• Strengthens handler focus and connection.

• Encourages dogs to stay within your proximity zone.

• Uses fun, game-based learning — dogs love games.