Dogs sometimes roll over on their backs in an evasive maneuver, referred to as a “tap out”, to avoid certain handling. The term “tap out” comes from wrestling jargon for the flat-handed tap a wrestler might do on the mat to signify he wants to quit the match. In dogs, though it may look like a request for a belly rub, it is really a form of passive resistance, or passive submission, given in response to something that is being done. The maneuver often happens when you’re trying to put on a leash or manipulate a collar, harness or head collar – your dog is trying to turn off your collar-grabbing behavior, for instance. To persist may only drive him to escalate his protest because, from his perspective, his wishes are not being heard. As a result, he may escalate his protest to a growl or even a snap.
So, instead of insisting on continuing, help your dog gain more ease with what you’re trying to do. If it’s a concern about collar grabs, teach him “gotcha”. If he consistently taps out when you’re putting the harness or head collar on, teach him a “get dressed” exercise to have him put the equipment on himself.
“Gotcha!”
Get your pup used to being grabbed by his collar. This is so you can get a firm hold of him at the end of the recall, for instance. Reach down with your hand and grab his collar, saying “Gotcha!”, as you deliver the treat from your other hand. Initially feed the treat just slightly in advance of grabbing the collar. Gradually delay treat delivery, first doing the grab and treat simultaneously, then waiting to treat until just after doing the “gotcha!” Also, start with a gentle grab and little by little make it more abrupt. Do it from all directions: from under the chin, from the side, and from over the top of the head.
"Get dressed!”
Don’t struggle with your dog to put on his harness or head collar. If he’s uncomfortable with it, struggle will only make it worse. Instead, try to change his feelings about it. Start by saying “get dressed!” and luring his head or nose through the equipment with a little treat. It’s important that you’re luring him into the equipment and not moving the equipment itself. Initially, you don’t have to fully clip everything; just practice luring him in, then slipping it off. Only do a few repetitions at a time so your pup doesn’t get frustrated. Gradually he’ll learn to push his head (or nose) into the equipment when he hears the command “get dressed!” and sees the equipment held in front of him. To build his tolerance for having the equipment fully clipped, drop a few tasty treats on the floor in front of him so he’s occupied as you finish things up.
Over time, having the walking equipment put on will start to be a more pleasant experience because it’s been paired with a fun reward.
Ultimately our relationships with our dogs will be deepened by our understanding and respecting their body language. Take the time to become fluent in canine body language; The Language of Dogs – Understanding Canine Body Language And Other Communication Signals (DVD set) by Sarah Kalnajs is a great resource.
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