How To Teach Your Dog Tricks

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You Can Teach Old Dogs New Tricks!

Most beginner dog tricks are easy. But everyone remembers the old saying, "you can't teach an old dog new tricks" right?  Now we know that this is largely incorrect. One of the main reasons for this age old adage is that a younger dog is easier to teach because he hasn't formed a lot of any bad habits that might get in the way of his training. A younger dog is also not too set in his ways, and hasn't formed many, if any bad habits. An older dog may have been acting out and doing too many undesirable things for a long time. These bad habits must be eliminated before teaching a dog good new habits. But having these bad habits is certainly not true of every older dog. The owners of these dogs will just have an easier time training them. While the owners of an older dog with set bad habits will just have to use a little more patience and more time to teach their dog, but they certainly can succeed!  Remember that how to teach a dog tricks is not intimidating but is both fun and rewarding!  And the many different tricks to train your dog range from easy to advanced.


An Easy Dog Trick

The trick we will be concentrating on is one of the more easy dog tricks to learn and is very popular with people. But remember that each dog has a unique personality. The response from even dogs of the same breed might not be the same. So take your time, have fun with the experience, and when you and your dog succeed, enjoy the fruits of your labors!

"Sit up" or "Beg" is a Great Trick

One of the best first dog tricks to teach your dog is the "sit up" or "beg". It is very endearing to dog owners and their friends to watch the dog perform, and most dogs seem to enjoy it, especially when they know a tasty treat is soon to come! One thing should be taken into consideration before starting to teach your dog this trick. A puppy should be at least 8 months old when his back muscles have developed properly. Also, obese dogs should not attempt this trick, as they could possibly injure themselves. Wait until the dog has slimmed down to its ideal weight.

Let's Get Started!

To teach your dog this trick, it is easiest to use a corner of a room. Most dogs need help in supporting their backs when first attempting to sit up. Using a corner is a great help for your dog, and makes it easier for you to teach him.

When starting, sit your dog with his back as close as possible to the corner, making sure his hind end touches the walls. You may want to have a collar and leash on your dog, especially if he's younger, to restrict any attempt at running away from you. Next, lift his forelegs, rest them on your arm, and repeat whatever command you have chosen to use for this trick. (Common ones are "sit up", or "beg"). It helps to hold a treat in your other hand up above his nose while you have him in this position. Continually repeat the command while his front legs are resting on your arm, and the tasty tidbit is above his nose. Resting your dogs back against the corner will prevent him from slumping over. When he does this reliably without squirming, you can move on to the next step.

Dog Tricks the Easy Way

While holding your dog's interest when he's in the "up" position and a treat is dangling above his nose, touch him occasionally under his chin to reinforce the command and behavior. Next, take your arm away while holding his attention on the tidbit and constantly repeat the command. He may stay in the "sit up" position, or he may bring his front paws to the floor. Repeat, repeat, repeat! When he does stay in the "sit up" position for a moment or two make sure you praise him lavishly and don't forget to give him his treat! Isn't teaching dog tricks fun?!

The Dog Training "Sit Up Trick"

Soon after your efforts, your dog will "sit up" in the corner with just the command and without your help. When this moment comes, it is time to bring your dog to the middle of the room and practice. It should be easy for him to perform this trick now. Keep on practicing to help your dog become more and more reliable. Soon he will perform for you consistently and with no hesitation.

Teach More Tricks to Your Dog!

When you and your dog have mastered this trick, you may want to teach him more cool dog tricks. Keep the learning process going! These experiences bond your dog even closer to you, and your mutual respect for each other with grow. Plus, you have the reward of showing off your smart pooch to your family and friends! Teaching dog tricks will become easier and easier to do with each new trick learned!

Guestbook

Teaching dog tricks can be fun for both you and your dog. Try the simpler tricks and then move on to the harder ones.

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Teaching your dog tricks is both fun and easy for you and your dog. You will be rewarded with ohhh's and ahhh's when your dog shows off his new skill... more »

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