How Many Tricks Can an Average Dog Learn?

While all dogs are different, every dog has his limits when it comes to learning. His brain is only developed to a certain point, past which he simply can̵7;t remember any more tricks and commands. The average dog can learn well over 100 different words, gestures and signals, though, so with the right strategy and a high level of commitment, you can teach your dog plenty.

  1. Tricks and Language

    • The average dog can learn about 165 different words and physical signals, like hand motions that accompany or take the place of commands. While not every command is a ̶0;trick,̶1; each word has meaning that you can teach to your dog -- for example, ̶0;stop,̶1; ̶0;down̶1; and ̶0;heel̶1; aren̵7;t known for their showmanship, but they̵7;re useful words to teach your dog. Dogs in the 80th percentile for intelligence can learn as many as 250 different words.

    Teaching Troubles

    • If your dog seems to have difficulty remembering or performing new tricks, it doesn̵7;t necessarily mean that his memory is already at capacity. No two dogs are exactly alike, and yours may simply have more difficulty than the next when it comes to picking up commands. Taking your dog to a trainer or experimenting with different instruction strategies can help you and him discover an approach to learning that he responds to.

    Rewards and Encouragement

    • When teaching a dog new tricks, the two biggest keys are positive encouragement and a consistent system of rewards. According to the Association of Pet Dog Trainers, positive encouragement is critical when teaching a dog a command or trick -- if you become frustrated or punish him for failure, he̵7;ll become frightened and confused. Instead, focus on positivity and giving him rewards whenever he succeeds -- small treats or even enthusiastic responses, for example.

    Forgetting Their Tricks

    • Even though the average dog can learn 165 words, that doesn̵7;t necessarily mean he̵7;ll always remember them. As they age, the majority of dogs develop symptoms of Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome, a condition that can make your dog̵7;s memory deteriorate. This means he may be prone to confusion and memory loss, and tricks that he once performed with confidence and ease no longer come naturally.