When we bring pets into our lives, we do so with the intention of building a bond of love, trust, and mutual enjoyment. One incredible way to enhance this relationship is by teaching our pets tricks beyond basic commands like “sit,” “stay,” and “come.” Not only is trick training a fantastic way to mentally stimulate your pet, but it also helps to build their confidence, strengthen your bond, and impress visitors with their new skills. Let’s dive into how you can take your pet’s skills to the next level by teaching them fun and entertaining tricks.
The Benefits of Teaching Tricks
Before we get into the ‘how,’ it’s important to understand the ‘why.’ Trick training is beneficial in various ways:
1. Mental Stimulation: Just like humans, pets need mental exercise. Teaching tricks keeps their mind active and can prevent destructive behaviors resulting from boredom.
2. Bonding: Time spent training builds your relationship with your pet, enhancing trust and communication.
3. Confidence Building: Successfully learning a new trick boosts a pet’s confidence, making them more adaptable and easier to train in the future.
4. Fun and Entertainment: Performing tricks can be a source of joy and amusement for both you and your pet, contributing to a happier household.
Preparing for Trick Training
Before embarking on teaching advanced tricks, ensure your pet is comfortable with basic commands. Basic obedience provides a foundation upon which more complex tricks can be built. You will need:
1. Treats: High-value rewards are essential. Use small, soft treats that your pet loves.
2. Clicker: Clicker training is an effective method for marking the desired behavior. If you don’t have a clicker, you can use a verbal marker like “yes.”
3. Patience & Consistency: Training takes time, so remain patient and consistent.
Creative Tricks to Try
1. Shake Hands/Paw
This classic trick is always a crowd-pleaser and relatively easy to teach.
– Step 1: Have your pet sit.
– Step 2: Hold a treat in your hand and allow your pet to sniff it.
– Step 3: Use the command “shake” and gently lift your pet’s paw with your hand.
– Step 4: As soon as their paw touches your hand, click and treat.
– Step 5: Repeat the process, gradually reducing the assistance you give to lift their paw.
2. High Five
Building on the “shake” command, this is an elevated paw trick.
– Step 1: Command your pet to sit.
– Step 2: Hold a treat in your hand, let your pet see it, then close your hand.
– Step 3: Raise your hand and encourage them to hit it with their paw while saying “high five.”
– Step 4: When they lift their paw to touch your hand, click and treat.
– Step 5: Practice until your pet raises their paw without your prompting.
3. Spin
Spin is a dynamic and impressive trick.
– Step 1: Get your pet’s attention with a treat.
– Step 2: Slowly move the treat in a circular motion close to their nose, causing them to follow it.
– Step 3: As they begin to spin, say “spin” and complete the circle.
– Step 4: Click and treat upon completion.
– Step 5: Gradually phase out the treat, using your hand to indicate the spin.
4. Roll Over
This trick is a bit more involved and requires patience.
– Step 1: Command your pet to lie down.
– Step 2: Hold a treat close to their nose and slowly move it over their head toward their shoulder.
– Step 3: Their body should start to roll over as they follow the treat.
– Step 4: Once they’re in a roll-over position, use the command “roll over.”
– Step 5: Click and treat once they’ve completed the roll.
– Step 6: Practice in short sessions, gradually reducing the lure.
5. Speak
Teaching your pet to bark on command can be fun and useful.
– Step 1: Find what makes your pet bark naturally (like a toy or sound).
– Step 2: Encourage the bark by using the trigger while saying “speak.”
– Step 3: As soon as they bark, click and treat.
– Step 4: Practice until your pet understands barking on command.
6. Play Dead
This dramatic trick is a showstopper.
– Step 1: Command your pet to lie down.
– Step 2: Hold a treat next to their head and gently roll them onto their side.
– Step 3: Use a cue like “bang” or “play dead” as you do it.
– Step 4: Click and treat when they’re lying down.
– Step 5: Practice the movement repeatedly until they respond to the verbal cue alone.
Tips for Success
– Short Sessions: Keep training sessions short (5-10 minutes) to maintain your pet’s interest.
– Positive Reinforcement: Always use positive reinforcement by rewarding good behavior.
– Consistency: Use the same commands and cues to avoid confusion.
– Patience: Each pet learns at their own pace. Be patient and kind.
– End on a High Note: Always try to end sessions on a positive note, even if it means reverting to a trick your pet already knows well.
Conclusion
Teaching your pet tricks beyond basic commands is more than just a fun pastime; it is an enriching experience that can significantly enhance their quality of life and your relationship with them. Remember to be patient, consistent, and encouraging as you embark on this entertaining journey of discovery and learning. Your pet will not only become more obedient and well-behaved but also happier and more confident. Happy training!
