4 Tricks You Can Teach Your Dog that Are Not the Basics
Do you want to spice up your dog's routine? Basic commands like sit, stay, and heel are great, but they can get a little boring after a while. Wouldn't it be amazing to see your furry friend master something beyond the basics?
In this blog, we will explore some unique and exciting tricks to elevate your dog's training. These tricks will not only impress your friends and family but also keep your pup mentally engaged. So, grab some treats, and let's dive in!
Dog Trick #1: How to Teach Your Dog to Smile
Did you know that dogs can smile? It's true! While dogs don't smile in the same way that humans do, they can display a similar expression when they're happy.
In this section, we'll go over the process of teaching your dog this heartwarming trick. With patience and persistence, your pup will be flashing their pearly whites in no time!
Here are four easy steps to teach your dog to smile, shared by Content Creator Kevin Bubolz (@elliegoldenlife):
Step 1: Tickle your dog’s whiskers.
Gently tickle your dog's whiskers to encourage them to break into a smile. When you see that heartwarming grin, say "Yes!" and treat your pup.
Step 2: Repeat.
Repetition is the key to mastery. Repeat Step 1 five to ten times.
Step 3: Add a cue word.
Once you're confident your dog will smile when you tickle their whiskers, introduce the cue word, "Smile." When your dog smiles on cue, say "Yes!" and reward them with a treat.
Step 4: Be patient and consistent.
It is important to be patient and consistent when training your dog. All dog training requires time and effort, and this trick is no different. Eventually, you can get your pup to respond to a simple verbal cue like "Smile" and beam with joy.
Dog Trick #2: How to Teach Your Dog to Hug
In this fast-paced world, we often forget the power of a simple gesture like a hug. A hug from your canine companion can provide the same comfort and connection as another human's. Beyond just being a charming trick, a dog's hug can also have therapeutic benefits.
Here are some steps to teach your dog to hug:
Step 1: Teach the command “Paws”.
Start by introducing the command "Paws". Lure your dog with a tasty treat, and as they raise their front paws, mark the moment by saying "Paws." Ensure that you reward them with the treat promptly.
Step 2: Add a visual cue.
Once your dog has mastered the "Paws" command, you can enhance their training by adding a visual cue. To do this, lightly touch your shoulders while saying "Paws." Be sure to mark the correct behavior with a positive marker, such as "Yes!"
Step 3: Introduce the verbal cue "Hug".
Once your dog recognizes the visual cue, you can introduce the verbal cue "Hug." As soon as their paws touch your shoulders, say "Hug" in a clear tone. This reinforces the association between raising their paws and touching your shoulders with giving a warm hug. Don’t forget to reward your dog with a treat, praise, or petting.
Step 4: Repeat the process as needed.
Continue to practice the "Paws" and "Hug" commands to ensure your dog becomes proficient in this adorable trick. Once your dog has mastered the trick, you can slowly reduce the use of treats.
Dog Trick #3: How to Teach Your Dog to Sit Pretty
Imagine your furry friend sitting on their haunches, front paws raised, and a charming expression on their face. It's not just a cute sight; it's a trick that improves your dog's balance and core strength.
Don't worry. Teaching your dog to sit pretty is a breeze, even for first-time trainers. With a bit of patience, your dog will be mastering this trick in no time. Here are the steps:
Step 1: Establish the "Sit" and lure.
Begin by instructing your dog to "sit." Hold a treat just above your dog's nose and slowly raise it. As your pet's front paws are off the ground, mark this behavior with a clear signal (such as a clicker or verbal praise). Then, reward with a tasty treat.
Step 2: Increase the duration of the “Sit Pretty” pose.
Repeat the process and gradually increase the duration of the "Sit Pretty" position. Aim to raise the treat slightly higher each time, encouraging your dog to sit up for longer periods.
Step 3: Gradually remove the lure.
Now, it's time to fade the lure. Perform the lure once with the treat, and then pretend to grasp another treat, marking and rewarding the correct behavior. This step helps your dog understand that they will be rewarded even when the treat is not visible.
Step 4: Transition to a hand signal.
Transform the lure into a hand signal. When your dog accurately assumes the "Sit Pretty" posture, reward them. This shift from the lure to a hand signal helps your pup associate the specific posture with the desired action.
Step 5: Introduce the verbal cue "Sit Pretty".
Lastly, incorporate a verbal cue into the trick. Say "Sit Pretty" just before giving the hand signal. Over time, you can gradually phase out the hand signal, relying solely on the verbal cue to prompt this charming trick.
Kevin Bubolz shares this tutorial video on how to teach your dog to "Sit Pretty":
Most dogs do not have the muscles or balance to sit pretty. It is important to be patient and understanding when teaching them this trick. Start with manageable training sessions and gradually increase the duration as your dog learns to hold the position.
Note: While the "Sit Pretty" trick is impressive, you must prioritize your dog's comfort and safety. It would be best to consult a veterinarian to ensure that this trick is safe for them.
Dog Trick #4: How to Teach Your Dog to Spin
Who says dogs can't dance? Teaching your dog to spin is a fun experience. It's a great way to bond with your pet and also an excellent way to exercise their mind and body. And it's easier to teach them this trick than you might think.
Follow these simple steps to teach your dog to spin:
Step 1: Prepare some high-value treats.
Grab some delectable, high-value treats that your dog loves. These treats will serve as a lure to get their attention and a reward for a good job.
Step 2: Rotate the treat around your dog’s head.
With a treat in your hand, rotate it around your dog's head. As the treat moves, your dog will naturally follow it with their nose, causing them to turn around. As soon as your dog completes the circle, say "Yes!" and reward them immediately.
Step 3: Transition to a hand signal and verbal cue.
Instead of the treat, use a hand signal, like a hand motion indicating the spin. Mark and reward every time your dog spins.
Step 4: Repeat the process.
Keep practicing the steps above, encouraging your pup with both the hand signal and verbal cue. With patience and consistency, your dog will master this fun trick in no time!
Final Word
Dogs can learn many amazing tricks, like the ones in this blog post. Teaching your dog new tricks is a fun and rewarding experience that strengthens your bond and keeps them stimulated.
You might also enjoy...
-
Posted in
Dog Training, Obedience Training, Training Tips
Hey, we’re glad to hear that you found our guide helpful for your training with your furry friend. Keep up the great work!
Thank you for this excellent guide! Your step-by-step guidelines on instructing superior hints are invaluable. My dog and I had a blast mastering new skills together. Looking forward to more!