How to Teach Crazy Dog Tricks

Teaching a dog tricks should be fun for you and your dog. Set realistic goals for your dog and limit distractions during training. Don't expect a dachshund to sit up because it would be too hard on his back. A basset hound could learn to play dead but shouldn't be encouraged to jump through a hoop. Keep the training sessions fun and always reward good behavior with a treat or toy and praise.

Things You'll Need

  • Treats
  • Toy
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Instructions

    • 1
      Teach your dog tricks with treats and love.

      Show your dog the treat in your hand and ask her, "Would you rather be dead or married?" Take her gently but quickly around the mid-section, lay her on her side and hold her there for two seconds. Let her up, tell her, "Good girl," and give her a treat. Repeat this routine for 10 minutes then end the session. She will soon be able to lie still when you ask her if she'd rather be dead or married and won't move until you say, "Good girl," which is her signal to get up and get a treat.

    • 2

      Hold a treat directly above your dog's nose just out of reach of his mouth. When his nose comes up to sniff the treat, slowly move the treat straight back over his head so he is forced to back up. While he's moving backwards, say to him, with enthusiasm, "Moonwalk!" When he has backed up several steps, give him the treat and say, "Good boy." Do this for 10 minutes at a time until he understands that moving backwards when you say "Moonwalk" will score him a treat and praise. Soon all you will have to do is hold the treat above his head and he will moonwalk on his own.

    • 3
      Your dog's favorite toy is a great a teaching tool.

      Hold your dog's favorite toy in front of her, look her in the eyes, pull the toy back toward you and say, "Say please." Whine or bark at her to indicate how you want her to respond. When she makes a whine or whimper back at you, toss the toy for her. When she brings the toy back to you, pet and praise her and say, "Good girl!" As she catches on to what you expect, her response will become more vocal. Always give her praise and throw her toy when she says please. You can substitute a treat for this training exercise if your dog is more food-motivated than toy-motivated.