How to Teach Your Dog to Do Peek a Boo

One of the joys of dog ownership is teaching your pet new tricks. Not only does this help create interaction and bonding between the dog and his owner, but it also keeps the dog entertained and helps develop his intellectual capacities. One of the most entertaining tricks to teach your dog is "peek-a-boo," with the dog holding his paws over his eyes. It takes time for the dog to master this trick, but it helps if he already knows the basic "sit" and "down" commands.

Things You'll Need

  • Dog treats
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Instructions

    • 1
      Even young puppies can be taught a variety of tricks.

      Give your dog the "down" command so that he lies down on the floor. Reward him immediately with a treat. Hold another treat to the side of his face, so that he'll roll over to his side. Keep holding the treat for a few seconds so that he stays there. Reward the dog with the treat. Repeat this process several times, first giving the dog the "down" command, and then holding the treat to the side of his face so that he'll roll over onto his side. Reward him every time he does this.

    • 2
      The secret to successful dog training is to show plenty of affection.

      Give your dog the "lie down" command and have him roll to his side. Gently place his paw on his nose. Say "Peak-a-Boo" in a playful, happy tone and reward him with a treat every time his paw is on his nose. Placing the treat near his nose to help him equate the treat with his paw being there. Repeat this process several times, having him roll on his side, placing his paw on his nose, saying "Peak-a-Boo" and rewarding him immediately.

    • 3

      Repeat this same sequence several times a day. Have the dog roll over, reward him with a treat, place his paw on his nose, say "Peak-a-Boo" and reward him immediately, even if he holds his paw on his nose for only a few seconds. Continue to practice the trick with him until he begins to put together the sequence in his own mind and realizes what you want from him. Depending on his intelligence and willingness to learn tricks, your dog may take days or even weeks to equate the "peek-a-boo" command to getting a treat.