How to Train Your Parakeet to Be Handled

Parakeets are naturally a bit flighty, but they can learn tricks and mimic sounds. You can train your parakeet to be handled using a basic command such as, ̶0;Step up.̶1; Training takes a few minutes each day and depends on consistent positive reinforcement to be successful. Using old perches your parakeet is familiar with will reduce the bird's anxiety and contribute to successful training.

Things You'll Need

  • Parakeet treat (pinch of toast, seed or fruit)
  • Small perch
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Speak in a calm voice, open the cage and put a few treat seeds in the food dish. This lets the bird know you are the treat giver.

    • 2

      Slowly insert the perch inside the cage. If the bird flutters, stop.

    • 3

      Take a few days, or as long as necessary, to get the bird familiar with you using the perch.

    • 4

      Hold the perch above the parakeet̵7;s feet and ask the parakeet to step up using the command ̶0;Step up̶1; or ̶0;Up̶1; once the bird allows you to place the perch near it without fluttering.

    • 5

      Offer the bird a treat and verbal praise when it follows the command.

    • 6

      Practice the ̶0;Step up̶1; command until it becomes second nature for the bird to obey when you give the command. It may take a week or so before the bird is comfortable with this activity.

    • 7

      Give the command for the bird to step up onto your finger or hand from the perch and offer a treat when it follows the command.

    • 8

      Continue to offer treats when the bird chooses to socialize and stay with you rather than fly away. This reinforces the message that spending time with you is a rewarding experience.

    • 9

      Introduce new commands while continuing to practice learned commands for best behavior results.