Training your dog often focuses on obedience and fun tricks, but one skill that’s just as important—and often overlooked—is teaching your dog to remain calm during handling. This can make everyday tasks like grooming, vet visits, and even emotional support situations much easier. One effective way to achieve this is by teaching your dog a “chin rest.”

What Is a Chin Rest?

A chin rest is when your dog places their chin gently in your open palm and keeps it there until you signal otherwise. They can be sitting, standing, or lying down—the important part is the calm, still contact with your hand. This behavior is not only useful for keeping your dog still during medical or grooming procedures but can also help them feel grounded and relaxed. With some practice, you can even transfer the behavior to objects like a towel or cushion, which is especially handy for therapy dogs.

Why Teach a Chin Rest?

When a dog offers a chin rest, it’s a voluntary act. That means they’re choosing to participate, which can reduce stress for both you and your pet. For instance, giving eye drops becomes much easier if your dog calmly holds their head still instead of resisting. It’s also helpful during ear exams, grooming, or any situation where your dog needs to stay still and relaxed.

The behavior can also have a calming effect. In overwhelming environments or when your dog is feeling reactive, asking for a chin rest can help reduce their arousal and redirect their focus. This small action can make a big difference in helping your dog feel more secure and in control.

How To Train a Chin Rest

There are two main techniques you can use to teach this skill: shaping and luring.

Method 1: Shaping

Shaping involves reinforcing small steps toward the desired behavior. Start by rewarding your dog just for moving their nose near your hand. Gradually increase the requirement—closer nose positioning, then brief contact—until they consistently place their chin in your palm.

Method 2: Luring

This technique is often quicker and works well for most dogs:

Step 1:
Hold your palm open and facing up in front of your dog. With a treat in your other hand, hold it slightly behind your palm so your dog leans forward. As soon as their chin passes over your hand, mark the behavior (say “yes” or click) and reward.

Step 2:
Repeat, but this time lower the treat so your dog’s chin lands directly in your palm. Mark and reward again.

Step 3:
Now fade the treat lure. Use the same hand positions, but keep your treat hand empty. When your dog rests their chin in your hand, mark the behavior and reward with a treat from your pocket. If needed, rub your fingers with a treat to retain the scent.

Step 4:
Present your open hand without any lure. If your dog places their chin in your palm, reward! You can now introduce a verbal cue like “chin” just before showing your hand.

Step 5:
Gradually increase how long your dog keeps their chin in place. Begin with one or two seconds, and slowly build up. Mix short and long holds to keep things manageable for your dog.

Step 6:
Introduce mild distractions. You could move your other hand near their face or pretend to handle their ears. Always reward your dog for staying calm and still.

Step 7:
Combine both duration and distractions. Slowly work up to holding the position through more challenging scenarios, like holding grooming tools or simulating medical care.

Final Thoughts

Teaching your dog a chin rest is a valuable life skill. It supports cooperative care, improves communication, and reduces stress during potentially uncomfortable moments. Best of all, it builds trust and makes everyday interactions smoother—for both you and your dog.