Speak
With some dogs and specific breeds this will be the easiest thing to teach, whilst others may well find it virtually impossible.
The Speak is all about confidence and dogs feeling intimidated or overwhelmed will not make any vocal response whereas others that are feeling just as threatened will bark in defence.
Neither is a good thing so the trainer’s job is to try to find a stimulant that will encourage the dog to bark without stress.
Frustration is a good starting point and allowing the dog to discover that making a noise gets it what it wants and then applying the command to the response usually works.
Trainers that haven’t taught this in the past may well need to seek help from those that have.
Speak - what to expect in a UKDS test
Speak
Novice Level
Dog will be on the lead at Handlers’ side and will be required to “speak” on one command. Three barks are required.
Speak
Intermediate Level
Dog will be at handler’s side off the lead. The handler will command the dog to speak.
Five barks on one command and a Quiet are required.
Speak
Advanced Level
Expert Level
According to Judge’s instruction.