How to Teach Your Dog Tricks

Teaching your dog tricks is a great way to have fun and strengthen the bond with your pet. Your dog will gain confidence as he learns to please you and his intelligence will increase as he learns new things. And besides that, the neighbors will think you have the smartest dog in the neighborhood.

Roll Over

‘Roll over’ is a cute trick that is usually not hard to teach. Many dogs can learn to roll over on command. Start with your dog lying on his side. If your dog is very active and won’t lie down, wait until he is calm or first teach him ‘down’ before you teach this trick.

Take one of his favorite treats and wave it over his shoulder in a roll over motion. If he rolls over to reach it, tell him “Roll over!” and give him the treat. Praise him as if he’s just won the lottery! If he starts to get up instead, take his legs gently and roll him over, saying “Roll over!” Then give him the treat and praise him. Make it fun and he will catch on after several sessions.

Training Tips

Other fun tricks your dog can learn are covering his eyes with his paws, bowing, and playing dead. When teaching your dog anything, there a few things to remember.

• Choose tricks that are compatible with his personality and ability. Don’t force your dog to do something that is difficult or scary or possibly dangerous for him. Tricks like sitting up may be harder for breeds such as the Basset than for breeds such as the Poodle. Almost any dog can shake hands or bow. If your dog likes to ‘sit up’ or ‘shake hands’ you can teach him to ‘wave.’
• Training works best when you reward your dog with his favorite treats. Whether it’s milkbones, wiener bits, or a squeaky toy, he will learn faster if he’s motivated.
• Teach only a few minutes each day so that your dog doesn’t get burned out. Keep things fun and always use positive methods. Punishments only serve to undermine your dog’s trust in you.
• Teach in small steps using the logical progression of learning. Your dog must first learn to ‘stand up’ before he can learn to twirl. He must first learn to step over a stick before he can learn to ‘jump rope.’
• Teach with patience and always end training sessions on a happy note. Your dog loves to have fun and wants to please you but he must understand what you want. Show him what you want and allow him time to make the connection between your command and the action. To avoid confusion, it’s best to teach only one trick at a time.

Remember to always keep it fun. Working with your dog in a positive way will build trust between you and enhance the bond you share. And before you know it, you will have the smartest dog on the block!

Dog Tricks

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