Every dog owner knows the joy of teaching their furry friend new tricks. Whether it’s a simple “sit” or an impressive “roll over,” training strengthens the bond between you and your pup while keeping their mind engaged. If you’ve ever wanted to teach your dog awesome tricks that impress guests and make life more enjoyable, you’re in the right place!
In this guide, we’ll explore some fun and rewarding tricks to teach your dog, along with must-have training tools that have received rave reviews on Amazon. Get ready for an exciting journey of learning and bonding with your four-legged companion!
1. Sit: The Foundation of All Tricks
Teaching your dog to sit is the gateway to more advanced tricks. Most dogs pick this up quickly with consistency.
How to Teach It:
- Hold a treat close to your dog’s nose.
- Slowly move your hand upward, causing their head to follow and their bottom to lower naturally.
- Once they sit, say “sit” and reward them with the treat.
- Repeat until they associate the command with the action.
Recommended Training Tool:
Blue Buffalo Wilderness Training Treats – These high-protein treats are small, tasty, and perfect for rewarding good behavior. With over 20,000 positive reviews, they’re a favorite among dog owners.
2. Shake Paws: A Crowd-Pleasing Classic
Everyone loves a dog who can “shake hands.” This simple trick builds trust and is easy to teach.
How to Teach It:
- Start with your dog in a sitting position.
- Hold a treat in your hand and let them sniff it.
- Gently lift one of their paws while saying “shake.”
- Reward them with the treat and praise.
- Repeat until they offer their paw automatically.
Recommended Training Tool:
Dog Training Clicker by PetSafe – Clickers provide a clear and consistent marker to reinforce good behavior. This one has over 10,000 positive reviews and is an excellent tool for trick training.
3. Spin: A Fun, Energetic Trick
Want a fun trick that adds flair to your dog’s routine? “Spin” is easy and engaging!
How to Teach It:
- Hold a treat near your dog’s nose.
- Slowly move your hand in a circular motion, encouraging them to follow.
- As they complete the spin, say “spin” and reward them.
- Practice until they do it with just the verbal command.
Recommended Training Tool:
Zuke’s Mini Naturalshttps://amzn.to/43kF9Pp Training Treats – These bite-sized treats are ideal for frequent rewards. They have thousands of five-star reviews and come in various flavors to keep training exciting.
4. Roll Over: A Trick That Wows
Rolling over takes patience but is a fantastic trick that many dogs love to perform.
How to Teach It:
- Start with your dog in a “down” position.
- Hold a treat near their nose and slowly move your hand toward their shoulder.
- Encourage them to roll onto their side and then over.
- Once they complete the roll, say “roll over” and reward them.
Recommended Training Tool:
PetAmi Dog Treat Pouch – Keep treats handy during training with this convenient, well-rated pouch.
5. High Five: A More Exciting Version of Shake
Once your dog masters “shake,” teaching “high five” is a breeze!
How to Teach It:
- Hold a treat in front of your dog at chest height.
- Wait for them to lift a paw.
- Gently tap their paw with your hand while saying “high five.”
- Reward them and repeat until they associate the command with the action.
Recommended Training Tool:
Outward Hound Nina Ottosson Puzzle Feeder – This interactive puzzle toy keeps dogs engaged and motivated to learn new tricks.
6. Speak: Teach Your Dog to Bark on Command
Some dogs love to bark, while others need encouragement. Either way, teaching “speak” can be a great way to control their vocalizations.
How to Teach It:
- Find something that excites your dog (a favorite toy or knocking on the door).
- When they bark, say “speak” and reward them.
- Repeat until they learn to bark on command.
Recommended Training Tool:
Starmark Treat Dispensing Ball – This engaging toy rewards dogs for playing and keeps their minds active.
7. Play Dead: A Dramatic Crowd Favorite
This trick takes patience but is always a showstopper.
How to Teach It:
- Start with your dog in a “down” position.
- Hold a treat and move it to their side, encouraging them to lie flat.
- Once they’re on their side, say “play dead.”
- Reward them and repeat.
Recommended Training Tool:
KONG Classic Dog Toy – This durable toy keeps dogs entertained between training sessions and is perfect for stuffing with treats.
8. Fetch: More Than Just a Game
Fetch isn’t just for fun—it provides mental and physical exercise.
How to Teach It:
- Start by throwing a toy a short distance.
- Encourage your dog to bring it back.
- Reward them when they return it.
- Gradually increase distance.
Recommended Training Tool:
Chuckit! Ultra Ball – This highly rated ball is durable and bouncy, making it perfect for fetch.
Final Tips for Successful Training
- Stay Positive: Dogs learn best with positive reinforcement.
- Be Patient: Some tricks take time, so keep sessions short and fun.
- Use Quality Training Tools: Investing in the right tools makes a big difference.
- Have Fun: Training should be enjoyable for both you and your pup!
Teaching your dog tricks is a rewarding journey that strengthens your bond. Whether you’re working on a simple “sit” or an impressive “play dead,” consistency and positive reinforcement are key.
If you’re looking for high-quality training tools and treats, be sure to check out the highly rated products we’ve linked throughout this guide. Happy training!