How to Use a Coachi Training Dummy in Reward-Based Dog Training
By PDSA Pet Store | Published: 2026-11-02
Category: How-to Guides
Learn how to introduce a Coachi Training Dummy step by step, from first sniff to recall and retrieve games, using rewards and keeping sessions short and positive.
Quick answer
Use a Coachi Training Dummy as a reward toy, not a thrown-and-forgotten object: introduce it slowly, reward every interaction, and keep retrieve games short so your dog stays eager. Pair it with treats and praise, and stop before your dog gets bored or overexcited.
Why the dummy works as a reward, not just a retrieve tool
A training dummy gives you a legal outlet for natural retrieving instincts, but its real power in reward-based training is that it can become a high-value item your dog wants to earn. That means you should control access: keep the dummy out of reach between sessions and bring it out only for training or play. If the dummy is always lying around, it loses its novelty and your dog may stop working for it.
The Coachi Training Dummy is a padded classic-style toy, which suits softer-mouthed dogs and makes it comfortable to carry. That padding also means it is not indestructible; supervise use and put it away after each session so it stays in good condition.
When to start and what to skip
Puppies can start with a small dummy as soon as they are comfortable carrying soft items, but keep sessions to a minute or two and avoid long throws that stress growing joints. For adult dogs new to dummies, treat the first week as introduction only—no formal retrieve yet. Skip the dummy entirely if your dog is possessive over toys or guards objects; in that case, work with a qualified trainer before adding a dummy to training.
Step-by-step: introducing and using the Coachi Training Dummy
- Let your dog investigate the dummy: Place the dummy on the floor and let your dog sniff, mouth or paw it. Reward any calm interest with a treat or praise. Common mistake: snatching the dummy away too soon, which can make your dog guard it. Keep the first session under two minutes and end while your dog is still curious.
- Reward every touch and carry: Hold the dummy near your dog and reward any mouth contact. If your dog picks it up, mark with a clicker or a word like 'yes' and treat. Common mistake: only rewarding a full retrieve; reward small steps first. Aim for five to ten successful carries before moving on.
- Build a retrieve game with short throws: Toss the dummy a short distance (one to two metres) and encourage your dog to bring it back. Reward with a treat when it returns, then take the dummy gently. Common mistake: throwing too far too soon, which can cause your dog to run off with the dummy. If your dog drops the dummy early, shorten the throw and reward closer to you.
- Use the dummy for recall practice: Show the dummy, then call your dog's name and reward them for coming to you. You can toss the dummy as a reward after a successful recall. Common mistake: calling only when you need to take the dummy away—always pair recalls with a treat or another reward. Practice recall with the dummy in at least three different locations.
- End each session on a win: Stop while your dog is still eager, put the dummy away, and give a final treat. Common mistake: continuing until your dog loses interest, which teaches that the dummy predicts boredom. A good session ends with your dog looking for more, not walking away.
Product facts
- Coachi Training Dummy Dog Toy: The Coachi Training Dummy is a classic padded style toy available in Small, Medium and Large. The padded design is gentler for softer mouths, and the size options let you match the dummy to your dog's build for comfortable carrying.
Coachi Training Dummy Dog Toy
