Teaching Dogs Tricks

by Suzy - Online Dog Coach

Why You Should Teach Dog Tricks

Dog tricks are a fun way to provide your friend with mental and physical stimulation, helping to prevent dog behavior problems. Dog waving at camera Dog tricks help you maintain your alpha leadership status using positive reinforcement. You interact with your dog in appropriate ways – no rolling around on the floor while the dog mouths you with his teeth! Tricks are games to play with your dog and you can let friends and family members play too. Start tricks when training a puppy.

Cool Dog Tricks

You’ve seen them on TV, would you like to see them in your own house? There are three types of tricks, easy dog tricks, tricks with props, and complicated tricks that require behavior shaping. Start now with Home Training and Tricks.

Easy Dog Tricks

These tricks require one movement from your dog, using simple dog training basics. Your dog may already do some of them on his own, and all you need to do is get him to do it on command!

Tricks With Props

Your dog can do something with objects such as dog agility equipment. Some of these can become even more exciting by using an unexpected object, like teaching him to fetch a hat or jump your arm or leg!

Jump over an object
Run through a tunnel
Go over a teeter totter or buja board
Jump up on a short table
Fetch

Tricks Requiring Shaping

When you “shape” your dog, you take several movements and put them together into a more complicated trick. For instance, to play dead, your dog must know how to down first. The dog trick play dead

How to teach a dog Tricks

Start with Dog Training Basics – use positive dog training in your attitude, consistency, and rewards. Teach in short lessons several times each week. Tricks that are new to a dog can be forgotten in just a few weeks, and you don’t want to retrain!

Choose basic dog training commands that are quick and fun, but don’t offend Grandma! Stick with the word so you don’t confuse your dog.

Since your dog doesn’t speak English, you’ll need to show your dog by luring him with treats and toys. You can also help him by gently placing his paw or body into the correct position. “

Remember…

Training your dog should be fun!
Dog learning to wave

About the Author

Suzy has had dogs as companions for over 30 years. She trained her own dog, Kalee, in agility and has just begun rally. Kalee competed and earned titles in UKC, NADAC and USDAA agility before retiring in 2007. Suzy is a children’s librarian, educating children since 1999 and adults since 1995, and is beginning her own education in behavioral science.