Mastering New Tricks: How to Elevate Your Dog Training Skills to the Next Level

Teaching Tricks: A Fun Journey into Advanced Dog Training

As a dog trainer, I’ve seen firsthand the joy that trick training brings to dogs and their humans alike. Beyond being an adorable party trick, teaching your dog to perform tricks strengthens your bond, stimulates their mind, and builds confidence. In this three-part series, we’ll explore how to teach three popular and fun tricks: Sit Pretty, Roll Over, and Play Dead. Each installment will include step-by-step instructions and tips for success. Let’s dive into the first trick: Sit Pretty!

Part 1: Teaching "Sit Pretty"

What is it? “Sit Pretty” is when your dog sits on their haunches with their front paws lifted off the ground. It’s an excellent trick for building core strength and balance.

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Start with a Solid Sit: Begin with your dog in a sitting position. If your dog hasn’t mastered “sit,” take some time to solidify this command before moving on.

2. Lure Them Up: Hold a treat slightly above your dog’s nose and slowly move it upward. This should encourage your dog to lift their front paws off the ground to reach for the treat.

3. Mark and Reward: As soon as your dog lifts their paws even slightly, use a clicker or a verbal marker like “Yes!” and reward them with the treat.

4. Build Duration: Gradually increase the time your dog holds the position before rewarding.

5. Add a Cue: Once your dog consistently performs the action, add a verbal cue like “Sit Pretty” or a hand signal.

Pro Tips:

• Practice on a soft surface to make it more comfortable for your dog.

• Keep sessions short to avoid tiring your dog’s core muscles.

• Be patient and celebrate small successes.

Part 2: Teaching "Roll Over"

What is it? Rolling over involves your dog lying down and completing a full body roll.

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Start in a Down Position: Get your dog to lie down.

2. Lure to Their Side: Hold a treat near your dog’s nose and slowly move it toward their shoulder. This should encourage them to lean onto their side.

3. Complete the Roll: Once your dog is on their side, continue moving the treat in an arc over their body, prompting them to roll onto their back and then to the other side.

4. Mark and Reward: Mark the behavior and reward them as soon as they complete the roll.

5. Add a Cue: When your dog can roll over consistently, add a cue like “Roll Over” or a hand signal.

Pro Tips:

• Practice on a non-slip surface.

• If your dog is hesitant, reward incremental progress (e.g., rolling onto their side).

• Make it fun and rewarding; avoid forcing them.

Part 3: Teaching "Play Dead"

What is it? “Play Dead” is when your dog lies on their side as if they’re pretending to be lifeless. It’s a hilarious crowd-pleaser!

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Start in a Down Position: Begin with your dog lying down.

2. Lure to Their Side: Use a treat to guide your dog’s nose toward their shoulder, encouraging them to lie on their side.

3. Add Drama: Once your dog is lying on their side, you can add flair by saying “Bang!” (or your chosen cue) in a playful tone.

4. Mark and Reward: Reward your dog as soon as they’re in the correct position.

5. Refine the Trick: Practice until your dog responds to the verbal cue or hand signal without needing the lure.

Pro Tips:

• Use exaggerated enthusiasm to keep your dog engaged.

• Gradually phase out treats to ensure they respond to the cue alone.

• Keep the environment relaxed and fun.

Wrapping It Up

Trick training is a fantastic way to enrich your dog’s life and yours. Celebrate every step of progress, and remember that every dog learns at their own pace. Stay tuned for future posts in this series, where we’ll delve into other advanced tricks and training techniques. Happy training!