Dog Training Tricks Using a Clicker

Clicker-based dog training is a positive reinforcement type of training. As soon as your dog does what you want him to do, you click the clicker then give him a treat. Clickers are found in any pet store, and there are many classes on how to use them in training. Dogs do take time to learn new things, so patience is required above all else.

  1. Sit

    • The object of the Sit trick is to get your dog to sit on command. First, hold a treat over your dog's nose and go towards her until she is seated. As soon as she is seated, say “sit”, click and give her the treat. Gradually work toward being able to have her do this without the lure, by voice command only.

    Shake

    • The object of the Shake trick is to get your dog to sitthen lift a paw for you to grab and shake. Start with him seated with his rear on the ground. Grab one of his front paws and hold it while clicking and giving a treat with the other hand. When he is comfortable with you holding his paw, add in the verbal command, “shake.” Eventually he will start to lift his paw for you when you say shake.

    Kiss

    • The object of the Kiss trick is to get your dog to lick your face. Most dogs enjoy licking, so this should be an easier trick to teach. When the dog is licking your face, say “kiss” and click and give a treat. If your dog is one of the few that isn’t a licker, you can use something like peanut butter on your face to get your dog to lick. Gradually work toward just putting your face near your dog’s face and saying kiss to get her to lick.

    Beg

    • The object of the Beg trick is to get your dog to sit up on her hind legs with her front paws in the air close to her chest. First, lure your dog with a treat by holding it just over her head. As soon as her paws leave the ground, click and treat. Slowly make her work harder and harder to get that treat by lifting it higher and higher. Once she is getting into position, then you can add the verbal command, “beg.” Then you can work on making her hold it for longer if desired. Then start to remove the treat lure until she gets into position without the lure.