We have always done agility with our dogs so using a ramp is normal, but not at first! Biggest thing to remember is to teach progression. First start the ramp just laying flat on the grass, reward them whenever they step on it, (also say the word ramp, walk on, whichever) then reward only once they get all 4 paws on. Then get them to walk on it the whole length. Then once the dog is super comfortable with it, put it on the bottom step of a deck and reward them for walking up it. Be extremely positive and never forceful. Use high reward treats, cooked up cubes of chicken, cut up cheese, something they go crazy for! Most of all go SLOW!! Make sure they are 100% comfortable with the current step before raising it. This isn't something that will only take 20 minutes, it might, depending on the dog, but be willing to work at it for days if needed. If your dog seems to be getting frustrated, try to end it on a good note, always with LOTS of high voiced praise whenever they accomplished the task you asked. Don't expect your dog to want to work at it for an hour, most dogs will get bored of it after 20 minutes (unless a Malinois or German Shepherd, they love to work!) Like I said, always end it on a high note and try again the next day!
