Looking for tricks to teach your dog but unsure of where to begin? While it can be easy for both you and your dog to get frustrated by complex tricks, by teaching them the basics, you create a foundation for your pup to build on. Start with the basics, then work your way to some impressive tricks with the infographic below.
The Best Tricks to Teach Your Dog
Simple but Helpful Dog Tricks
These tricks will help you manage your dog, especially in public.
1. Wait
This is the most basic command and will teach your dog to be patient. While a simple trick, it has its uses:
- Teaches calmness, self-control, and focus
- Useful when there are lots of distractions
2. Quiet
Getting your dog to stop barking can be difficult. However, instead of waiting for a moment of high-energy, practice this trick in a quiet setting for maximum effectiveness. While it sounds counterintuitive, it really works!
- Teach in a calm setting
- Gradually move to louder settings
3. Sit/Stay
Most dogs have so much energy in them that they can’t stay still. They get easily distracted and excited which can be dangerous. To keep your pup safe, make sure to teach them this trick!
- Keeps your pooch still
- Useful in busy situations and places
The Service Dog
Dogs can be a great help around the house too!
4. Shut/Open the Door
This trick will give your dog access to other places in your home. This is a simple command that can be very important for people with a disability.
- Install pulls for easier opens
5. Fetch
Other than the convenience of not having to get up from your couch, this trick can also be useful if you’re hoping for your dog to become a service dog. Teaching them fetch allows a dog to access certain items that may otherwise be unreachable to those with a disability.
- Not just for playing, your dog can also fetch for?household items
The Agility Dog
Teaching your dog to be agile is key to keeping them fit and healthy!
6. Hurdle
Having a dog that is agile has its advantages.
- Improves stamina and fitness
- Encourages focus
7. Hop it
Being able to prompt your dog to do something like this at your command is a great skill to show off. Additionally, you can use this trick to keep them alert and moving.
- Prepare a target stick for your dog to jump over
- Enhances dog obedience and heelwork
Crowd Pleasers
Tricks that family and friends will enjoy watching.
8. Shake
A simple paw-to-hand shake with family, friends, and acquaintances is a classic trick and a crowd pleaser.
- A great alternative to jumping on people as a greeting
9. Kiss
While not everyone loves a slobbery tongue, for dog-lovers, there’s nothing sweeter than a doggie kiss.
- Who doesn’t love kisses?
Teaching your dog these new tricks will not only better your relationship with your pet, but it will also improve your lifestyle. If the process still feels daunting, try teaching your dog for just a few minutes each day. Then, as weeks go by, you can gradually increase your training time. Don’t forget to reward your dog with a treat or with a good belly rub after each trick. Such praise will help your pet remember the trick in the future!
Do you have any other tricks to teach your dog? Let us know in the comments below!
Up Next:?What Is Positive Dog Training?
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