I agree w/ all that's been said already - especially the TOUCH command, as Lissa mentioned. I taught my dog to target by using lids - yogurt container lids, margarine container lids, cream cheese lids, etc... get a clean lid - rub a treat on it (transfer the smell of the treat to the lid), put dog in a sit, hold the target (lid) at his level and say TOUCH - when his nose hits that lid, REWARD! (praise, treat, whatever works for you)
gradually build this skill, then start putting the target (lid) on the floor. imagine it's a painted dot on the floor - tell your dog to GO TOUCH.
we have "lid races" - using a hallway or such - put a lid at each end, and race to the lids - pump your dog up (ready! ready!! ready!!! go touch!!!!!!!!!!)
eventually you can phase out the actual "lid" and teach him to touch other things.
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