In direct support of humans and pets associated with the . . .
It’s important to note that these tricks are in a strategic order for ultimate success! Printable version
First up… is SIT!
This trick is an integral baseline for a well-trained pup. Not only does it help with self-control, but also helps your pup focus on YOU! It is essential that your pup masters this before moving onto other tricks.
Instructions
- Have your pup face you. Tell your pup to “sit” while showing them the treat.
- Do NOT repeat the word sit multiple times, this creates bad habits for listening skills!
- Move the treat to the pup’s nose
- Then move your hand slowly up over the pup’s head. This helps the pup to lower to a seated position
- Once your pup’s butt touches the floor, use your clicker word and give them a treat!
- REPEAT!
Note:
NEVER forcefully push your pups butt to the floor. This can damage their hips and teaches them nothing!
Next up… is LAY DOWN!
Ensure your pup is comfortable with the “sit” command before moving onto this step.
Instructions
- Have your pup sit in front of you.
- Put the treat to your pups’ nose and slowly lure your pup to the ground by moving your hand between its paws.
- Once your hand hits the floor, move it back towards yourself and away from your pup. Use your command “Down”.
- Once your pup lays down from this, say your clicker word and give them a treat!
- REPEAT!
Note:
If your pup gives up before successfully laying down, move back to the step they are stuck on and work your way from there until they lay down.
Next… is STAY!
This tool is amazing for self-control and requires a lot more attention that “sit” or “lay down.” You can perform the trick “stay” in either the seated or lying position, but being that lay down requires more self-control and attention, it is typically more effective
Instructions
- With your hand signal out (ex: pointer finger) take a step back while using the command “Stay” or “Wait.”
- Return back to your pup, and if they stayed seated or lying, reward with the clicker word and a treat.
a) You may not get any further than this one step for a bit! That is OK and work with this! - If success, try stepping two steps back.
a) If your pup moves, use your command for “No” (ex: no, uh-uh) - Once your pup has this down pat, you can work on using a release word (ex: “ok”, or “free). This command will let your pup know they don’t have to wait/stay any longer.
- REPEAT!
Next… is COME!
This trick is one of the most valuable commands you can teach your pup, especially in the case of them getting off leash, you know that they will return. Not only is it frustrating if they don’t listen and return, but it can be quite a danger if in a public/high traffic area.
Instructions
- When beginning, start in a small, enclosed area so your pup cannot freely roam if they choose not to listen.
- Remove your pup’s leash.
- Say your pup’s name, followed by the command “come” in a positive voice with treats.
a) KEY: ALWAYS say your pup’s name in a positive tone. This teaches them that when you call them it is a good thing, and they want to come to you! - If your pup doesn’t come, use a “kiss” noise or another attention grabber to ensure they heard.
- When they do come, reward with clicker word and treat!
- REPEAT!
Note:
Although this trick may be extremely difficult to perfect, it is vital. Ensure that you are always being positive, and do not show your frustration if they aren’t listening. The key is to start off slow, with minimal distractions and slowly work your way up. Moving along too quick and going straight to the dog park will only hinder your practice.