Training your dog doesn’t have to feel like a chore.
When you focus on tricks that bring joy to both of you, learning becomes playtime instead of work.
These simple commands strengthen your bond while giving your furry friend the mental workout they crave.
Always consult with a professional dog trainer or veterinarian if your dog shows signs of stress, aggression, or physical discomfort during training sessions.
1. Shake Paws
Your pup already knows how to use their paws, so why not turn it into a polite greeting?
Gently lift one paw while saying “shake,” then immediately reward them with a treat and praise.
Most dogs catch on within just a few tries because it feels natural to them.
Soon enough, your dog will be offering their paw without prompting, turning every hello into an adorable handshake moment that melts hearts.
2. Roll Over
This classic trick looks impressive but breaks down into simple steps.
Start with your dog lying down, then hold a treat near their nose and guide it slowly toward their shoulder.
Their body will naturally follow the treat, completing the roll.
Say “roll over” as they move and celebrate with treats when they finish.
Patience works wonders here since some dogs take longer to understand the full rotation.
3. Spin
Want to see your dog dance on command?
Hold a tasty treat close to their nose and move it in a complete circle, encouraging them to follow with their whole body.
As they turn around, say “spin” in an upbeat voice and reward them immediately.
You can even teach clockwise and counterclockwise spins using different words, creating a mini choreography routine that showcases their agility and coordination.
4. Play Dead
Every dog deserves their moment of theatrical drama.
Once your pup knows “down,” gently roll them onto their side while saying “play dead” or “bang.”
Reward them for staying still in that position, even if just for a few seconds at first.
This trick requires trust and relaxation, so go slow and keep sessions lighthearted.
Soon your furry actor will be ready for their big performance whenever guests visit.
5. Kiss
Turn those enthusiastic licks into an adorable trick everyone will love.
Place a small treat near your cheek and say “kiss” as your dog licks it off.
Reward them right away to build the association.
Be warned though: once your dog masters this one, they might offer kisses a bit too generously!
It’s perfect for showing affection on command and makes for absolutely heartwarming photos that capture your special connection.
6. Bow
With a heart full of grace, your dog can learn to take a theatrical bow.
Hold a treat near the ground between their front paws while keeping their rear end up.
Say “bow” as they lower their chest toward the floor.
This trick mimics their natural stretching behavior, making it easier to learn.
Plus, it adds a touch of elegance to your training repertoire and serves as a perfect finale to any trick performance.
7. Sit
Every great trick journey starts with this fundamental command.
Hold a treat above your dog’s head and slowly move it backward over their ears.
As their nose follows upward, their bottom naturally drops to the ground.
Say “sit” clearly and reward them instantly.
This building block opens doors to countless other commands and helps establish you as a calm, consistent leader your dog trusts and respects during all future training adventures.
8. Down
Did you know that teaching “down” helps anxious dogs find their calm?
From a sitting position, hold a treat in front of their nose and lower it straight to the floor.
Your dog’s body will follow the treat into a lying position.
Say “down” and reward them warmly.
This command proves especially useful in public spaces or when guests arrive, giving your dog a clear way to relax and settle when excitement runs high.
