What is the corrective exercise for a canine that is not focusing on the source?

The correct choice of palm outs as a corrective exercise for a canine that is not focusing on the source involves a specific technique designed to regain the canine's attention and refocus its behavior. Palm outs involve using the handler's hand to create a visual barrier or cue, which serves to interrupt the dog's current focus and direct its attention back to the handler or the task at hand. This method can effectively reduce distractions by visually signaling to the canine that the handler wants to take control of the situation.

Using palm outs also allows for a clear and consistent communication channel between the handler and the dog, reinforcing boundaries. This technique is particularly useful in environments with competing stimuli, as it offers the dog a physical cue to recognize which direction they should be paying attention to, thus enhancing their overall focus and responsiveness in training situations.

While other options like redirecting attention and using verbal commands can indeed influence a dog’s focus, palm outs provide a more immediate and visual correction that can be particularly effective in high-distraction scenarios. Changing the training environment, while sometimes useful, can be impractical or difficult to implement in every situation.