Top 5 cool tricks to teach your dog
National Dog Day is right around the corner, and we think the best way to celebrate with your furry friend is to teach them some fun tricks!
Don’t worry; we have a few tutorials to get you started!
1- Shake Hands
Start by putting your dog in a “sit” position. Then, put a treat in your hand and slowly move it towards the ground near the dog’s paw. As the dog raises its paw in anticipation, use the verbal cue “shake,” give it the treat, then praise your dog enthusiastically. Repeat as much as needed to get the trick to stick!
2- Kiss
Place a treat in front of your face and give the command “kiss” . Offer your cheek by extending it in front of your dog until she touches it with her nose. Then, before she has a chance to give you a lick, offer her a treat instead. You need to be fast for this one since pulling away as soon as she touches your cheek with her nose will make her learn that all she has to do is press her nose against your cheek gently to get the treat.
3- Roll Over
Put your dog in a “down” position. Then, put a treat in your hand and move your hand slowly behind your dog’s neck. Your goal is to get your dog to turn its head backward without standing up.
Then, as its head reaches back to sniff the treat, gently roll it over. As soon as your dog rolls over, give it the treat and praise your dog enthusiastically. Repeat the process. As you start to roll it over, say the command “roll,” and when it goes completely over, give your dog the treat, followed by more praise.
4- Dance
Start with your dog in a sitting position and hold a treat in your closed hand near its nose. Slowly lift your hand over and slightly behind the dog’s head so the dog looks back and begins to stand on its hind legs. As soon as your dog stands on its hind legs, praise the dog, and give it the treat. Repeat the process until your dog stands quickly and sturdily on its back legs. Then, begin moving the treat above the dog’s head in a small circle. You want your dog to twirl on its hind legs. As soon as the dog begins to step in a circle, use the term “dance” and offer praise and the treat. Use the treat as bait to get the dog to stand up and turn in a circle.
5- Open and Close a Door
Tie a rope or a toy to the door handle and encourage the dog to tug the rope or toy.
Once he tugs, praise and reward him with a treat (only when your dog has done it successfully).
Once he can open a door, you can hold a treat in a way that encourages him to jump on the door to close it.
Remember, physical and mental stimulation is a great way to keep your pup healthy and engaged and ensure they’re living a full, happy life!
