Techniques for Training a Dog to Jump Through a Hoop

Dogs training for agility trials will need to learn how to jump through a hoop. Even if competition is not your goal, this skill can be a fun trick to teach a dog that has already mastered basic commands. Continuing to train with your dog on more advanced skills gives you opportunities to interact and play. Teaching your dog to jump through a hoop can be easy if you know how to get started.

  1. Start With a Hula Hoop

    • You can find hula hoops at toy stores. They are less expensive than agility hoops and give you the flexibility to train anywhere. Start inside to decrease distractions and limit the space your dog has to run around. Take the hula hoop outside when your dog has learned what you want him to do.

    Let Your Dog Get Used to the Hoop

    • Your dog may be intimidated by a hoop the first time it sees one and won't try to jump through. Give your dog time to get used to the hoop before you start training. Lay the hoop on the floor and let your dog investigate it as much as it wants. Encourage the dog to step into the center of the hoop by placing dog treats on the floor. This will help it get used to the hula hoop and teach it to associate hoops with rewards.

    Start Low

    • Start by standing the hoop up on the floor. You can hold it if you like, but securing it with string will allow you to work with your dog without worrying about the hoop falling over. Put the hoop in a doorway where you can easily block your dog's path around it. The only option the dog has is to go through the hoop. Entice the dog through by standing on the other side and offering a treat. Raise the hoop gradually as your dog gets used to the lower height. You may need to place a bench or box in the way to keep your dog from crawling underneath the hoop.

    Use Positive Reinforcement

    • Don't put too much pressure on your dog by demanding that it jump through the hoop. Dogs love to play, and if you turn your training sessions into a game, it will be eager to learn. Have plenty of your dog's favorite snack on hand to use as a reward when it tries to step or jump through the hoop. Rewarding your dog will teach it what you want it to do. Put as much excitement and enthusiasm in your voice as possible and praise your dog often. If your dog is having fun, it will want to try again and again, even after it becomes a hoop-jumping pro.