Play Dead

• Prerequisites

  • Down
  • Release Word

• Supplies You Need

  • Treats

• Training Time

  • Read Article

• Instructor

  

  Brianna

  » Read Bio

• 
• 

Teaching your dog to Play Dead is a classic trick you can do anywhere with your pet.

Process

Play dead starts by giving your dog the Down command. Ideally your dog will lie down on his side.

Point your finger and say BANG or other command, gently pushing your dogs head toward the ground as you give the command.

Reward your dog with a treat while his head is on the floor. Do not reward him if he lifts his head up.

You want him to stay on his side with his head on the floor until you give your release word. Eventually you will even be able to give this command from a distance.

Suggested Command Words:

Play Dead

Bang

Fall Over

Are You Sick

Go to Sleep

Tips

• It is sometimes best to train this trick when your dog is tired and happy to be lying down. You might try training Play Dead after a walk or jog.
• Don’t wait too long before giving the release word. In the initial stage of training, wait only a few seconds at a time.

Support Our Site

Online Dog Coach provides FREE content to promote healthy relationships with dogs through safe and responsible training. If you found this lesson to be helpful, please help support our website and content development by referring a friend or providing a monetary donation. Thanks for training with us.