As a new dog owner, you may be thinking “How do I teach my dog how to do tricks on command like many other dog parents?” While dogs are young this is the best time to instill dominance and good behaviors by using positive reinforcement. There are many different methods that vary based on each experienced dog training professionals repertoire which they use to train dogs, but if you have the time and would like this wonderful experience to be between you and your dog learning any trick you can easily start with the basics using this method.
The first trick your dog should learn as the basis for all other tricks is how to sit on command. When first attempting you should expect many failures but when your dog finally does it right make sure to shower them with as much affection as possible.
Step 1: Prepare with the necessary tools
The first tool we recommend using for training your dog is a Dog Training Clicker. These clickers are very useful for getting your puppies’ attention and then stating your command for them to follow. Eventually your dog will be able to associate the command mentioned while clicking with the movement. This will be a reoccurring theme with other tricks that will be mentioned later.
Alongside dog clickers in order to train a puppy of any size the use of reward treats will be necessary to give them the positive reinforcement needed to associate the correct command and click with the correct movements. Eventually they will be able to do these tricks without treats after enough positive reinforcement, and memorization of vocal command.
Smaller reward treats are recommended, and there are various brands to choose from. For a list of recommended reward treats you can see our list of “Top 5 Most Nutritious Reward Treats”.
Crazy Dog Train-Me! Training Reward Mini Dog Treats
Step 2: Practice with your dog makes perfection
When practicing these methods in repetition make sure you hold the treat with your left hand, and ensuring you have easy access to more treats in a bag attached to your hip. By holding the treat in front of your dog lure him/her to following the treat.
You can then proceed to clicking the remote training clicker and stating the command “Sit” or “Stay.” As soon as your dog follows this command proceed to giving a reward. Positive reinforcement will establish an association with sitting to the click and command and a reward in return.
Step 3: Sit or Stay, and More ways to Play
After much practice with your pet, you should begin trying by voicing the command “Sit or Stay” without the clicking device or treats. Once your dog has mastered this technique and has associated the motion with reward you should be able to voice this command without a reward but always shower your dog with pets as it will reassure positive responses.
Now that your dog has learned to Sit and Stay you can teach him/her more tricks with treats which will make the bond with your dog even stronger.
