Tricks - From Head to Tail I
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Content
In this course, you and your dog will learn five whole body tricks that will be sure to impress friends and relatives. These tricks are a fun way to strengthen the relationship with your dog as well as increase your dog’s body awareness and self-confidence.
Age Requirements
With the exception of Figure-8 Between Legs, these tricks can be taught to puppies 8 weeks of age to adults. We recommend that your dog be at least 6-months before training Figure-8 Between Legs to ensure their spine has developed. As always remember to keep training sessions short and fun, especially with puppies.
Prerequisite: None
Goals and Objectives
When you and your dog complete this course, your dog will be able to perform five tricks using verbal commands and hand signals.
Trainer will be able to:
Understand the concept of luring to teach your dog tricks and know how to fade luring in order for your dog to perform these tricks with verbal commands and hand signals.
Dog will be able to:
Perform a variety of whole body tricks.
Background
Dog tricks are a fun way to provide your dog with mental and physical stimulation. Trick training starts with Dog Training Basics – using a positive attitude, consistency, and rewards. In addition, training sessions should be kept fun and short.
As you begin Tricks – From Head to Tail I, think about these questions:
- What motivates your dog the most? To train these tricks, you will need to find a treat or toy that can be used as a lure.
- Does your dog naturally offer any of these behaviors such as roll over or bow? If so, considering starting with that lesson.
Activities and Video Lessons
Start with Bow and Circle as these are simple luring tricks. Circle and Chase Your Tail are the same movement with different commands. Next, move on to Rollover and Play Dead (Note: These tricks are easier to train if your dog knows the Down). Finally, move on to the most difficult trick in this course Figure 8 Between Legs. Remember trick training should be fun for both you and your dog – keep training sessions short and fun – take a break if either you or your dog gets frustrated.