Why Every Dog Trainer Needs to Be Using Cato Boards
If you’ve been searching for a game-changing tool to elevate your dog training, it’s time to discover the power of platform training with Cato Boards. These simple yet highly effective platforms are more than just a tool—they’re a mental anchor for your dog. Here’s why they’re essential to any serious training program.
The Secret to Focus and Confidence
One of the most powerful aspects of Cato Boards is how they transform a dog’s mindset. When a dog steps onto a platform, it’s like flipping a switch. Their focus sharpens, their energy calms, and they’re ready to engage. It becomes their “safe haven”—a clear starting point that helps them block out distractions and channel their attention. Imagine having a tool that not only boosts your dog’s focus but also helps them regain control when things get overwhelming. That’s what Cato Boards bring to the table. Whether you’re training a new skill or resetting behavior, this platform gives your dog the confidence to thrive under any circumstances.
Clear Communication Through Criteria
What makes the Cato Board even more special is its ability to provide clarity for both trainer and dog. With the elevated surface, dogs can easily understand when they are meeting the criteria you’ve set. This physical clarity accelerates learning. No more wondering if your dog is ‘getting it’—you’ll see the results faster than ever before. With simple steps, you can train your dog to place one paw on the platform, then two, and before long, you’ll have them sitting or laying down with precision. Each repetition builds toward a high level of obedience that will blow you away. And once your dog masters these foundational skills, you can start introducing them to a variety of environments and distractions, all while using the Cato Board as a consistent anchor.
Why Cato Boards Are My Go-To Platform
Over the years, I’ve tried countless platforms—some too bulky, others unstable or difficult to transport. But after using Cato Boards, I’ll never go back. They’re rugged, easy to stack, and built to withstand the rigors of dog training in all environments. Rain, mud, or tough terrain—Cato Boards handle it all. Plus, they’re incredibly versatile, making them a perfect fit for any type of training, from basic obedience to advanced scent work. In my detection dog programs, Cato Boards are an essential part of every drill. Whether I’m teaching a dog to target a scent or run line-up drills, these platforms help my dogs perform with precision and confidence. The mental clarity they provide is unmatched, especially for dogs struggling with distraction or confusion.
Detection Training: A Strong Cato Start
In all my detection dog training, the journey begins with a Cato Board. From the first moment I teach a dog to target a scent, the Cato Board serves as the foundational tool. Whether it’s working on basic line-ups or advanced scent wheels, the Cato Board plays a critical role in building focus and consistency. During line-up drills, the Cato Board acts as both the starting and finishing point. If a dog struggles to locate the target odor, I’ll place them on the Cato Board at the end of the line-up for a few seconds. This brief pause helps reset the dog’s mental focus before running the drill again. This mental anchor is incredibly effective, especially for dogs that find it difficult to stay on task during scent work. The stability and clarity that the Cato Board provides help the dog understand exactly where they need to be, giving them the confidence to perform better in each drill. This precision makes it easier for the dog to grasp what’s being asked, which is critical when you’re building a strong foundation in detection training.
Directionals: Precision with Cato Boards
Cato Boards also play a key role in teaching directionals. When introducing a dog to directional cues, I start by teaching them to run straight lines using two Cato Boards—one as the starting point and the other placed 5 to 10 meters away. Once the dog is consistently running straight toward the second board, I add two more Cato Boards to the field. At this point, the dog begins learning left and right cues. The Cato Boards serve as stable, clear targets, helping the dog understand where to go and how to earn their reward. Because the boards are easy for the dog to recognize and work with, they become essential for teaching reliable directional control. As the dog’s skills progress, I’ll introduce more complexity by changing the positions of the boards, working in T and double T patterns, and increasing distances. With these more advanced setups, the Cato Boards continue to function as mental anchors, helping the dog maintain focus despite added distractions. They serve not only as targets but also as reliable reset points, keeping the dog centered and ready to take on new challenges. Whether it’s for scent detection or directional drills, the Cato Board is a powerful training tool that provides clarity, consistency, and confidence for your dog—no matter the skill level.
Think a Piece of Cloth Will Do the Same?
Some trainers ask, “Can’t I just use a piece of cloth as a marker?” While you can try, it doesn’t offer the same benefits. The height and stability of the Cato Board make a world of difference. Dogs are highly aware of their body position, and the physical sensation of stepping onto a platform gives them a clear sense of accomplishment. Without that, it’s much harder for them to understand if they’re meeting your criteria.
Ready to Elevate Your Training? Join My Cato Board Workshop!
As an authorized dealer of Cato Boards in Europe, I not only sell these incredible platforms but also run hands-on Cato Board workshops where I teach trainers like you how to get the most out of them. Whether you’re training detection dogs, teaching directionals, or perfecting obedience, you’ll see firsthand how Cato Boards can transform your training. These workshops combine theory with practical exercises to help you and your dog build a strong foundation quickly and effectively. You’ll leave with a deeper understanding of how to use the Cato Board in various training scenarios and a newfound confidence in your dog’s performance. Want to know more? Contact me at animaltraining@icloud.com or visit detectiondogshop.com to get your own Cato Board today!