5 easy dog tricks

101 Easy & Cool Tricks To Teach Your Dog (Step-By-Step)

Heres what I tell most fur parents when it comes to dog training:

Although its a serious task

You can make sessions fun by teaching your pooch a limitless number of tricks.

And the good news is:

Youve come to the right place to help turn Fidos drills around.

Continue reading to find out:

• 101 simple and fun tricks to teach your dog.
• 5 must-know benefits of teaching tricks to your canine.
• Whats the first trick to teach your pooch (it builds foundation).
• And more

Benefits of teaching tricks to your dog

Teaching tricks is an essential component of canine training. Moreover, it has numerous benefits to your dog, some of which are:

• Entertainment.
• Added physical activity.
• Learning useful practical skills.
• Gaining enough mental exercise.
• Making the dog happy and content.

Fun fact: AKC says dogs who know how to show off tricks are more likely to get adopted in shelters. As their intelligence makes a great impression on their potential fur parents.

Moreover, tricks wont only benefit your doggo. As a fur parent, teaching tricks can even turn you into a better trainer.

30 easy tricks to teach your dog (for beginners)

#1: Responding to the clicker

Suitable for: All ages. But its best learned as a puppy (< 1 year old).

Description:

Whenever you click, it lets your canine know they did something good. Thats why its the best way to build your dogs training foundation.

How to teach this trick to your dog:

1. Prepare your clicker and a bag of treats.
2. Position your dog in front of you. And ensure you have their attention.
3. Click and hand your pooch a treat.

Reminder: Never click without giving a treat after. Such inconsistency can confuse your pup. Which lessens the tricks effectiveness.

1. Repeat step #3 for 30 times.

Potential issues with this trick: Misusing the clicker can lead to your pup getting fat. Thats why I highly suggest using small pieces of treats. According to AKC, even a pea-sized reward is plenty for a large dog. You can also go for low-calorie treats.

#2: Teach them their name

Suitable for: All ages. But its best learned as a puppy (< 1 year old).

Description:

This will further help you reinforce the rest of the tricks in this read. As it works the same way as the clicker. So when your pup hears their name, they know something good is coming.

Note: Although this is most applicable in puppies, some adult dogs need to learn their name too. A great example is canines from the shelter who dont have any names. Or theyre due for a new one.

How to teach this trick to your dog:

1. Position your pooch in front of you.
2. Wait until theyre not looking at you, then cheerfully call their name.
3. As soon as they look at you, mark the behavior with a clicker.
4. Then, deliver a treat right after the previous step.

Potential issues with this trick: Dont let them associate their name with a negative reaction like yelling it at them. If you do, your pooch develops anxiety whenever they hear their name.

#3: Sit

Suitable for: All ages. But its best learned as a puppy (< 1 year old).

Description:

You can consider this the most basic trick in this list. But dont underestimate it. Teaching this is the best trick to start their obedience training.

How to teach this trick to your dog:

1. Begin with your dog standing.
2. Hold a treat over your dogs nose.
3. Slowly lift the treat away from their nose. And move it towards their rear.
4. Theyll follow the treat until their rear touches the ground. When it does, mark using a clicker.
5. Then, hand them the treat.
6. Once your dog stands up, repeat steps 1 to 5 for at least 5 minutes.

Potential issues with this trick: Your dog might use this trick to try to always earn treats.

#4: Leave it

Suitable for: All ages. But its best learned as a puppy (< 1 year old).

Description:

This teaches your pooch not to pursue everything that makes them curious. Which will be handy throughout their life.

How to teach this trick to your dog:

1. Hold 1 treat in each hand and close them.
2. Put 1 hand in front of your pooch. While you hide the other behind your back.

Pro Tip: Use different treats. The one behind your back should be a better choice. This will make this trick more effective.

1. Let your canine be curious about your extended hand.
2. Eventually, theyll lose interest. When they do, immediately say, Leave it.
3. Then, give them the better treat you were hiding (the treat in your extended hand is just for lure).

Potential issues with this trick: Youll have to be quick on saying the command for this to work. Otherwise, Fido will continue pursuing their curiosities.

#5: Touch

Suitable for: All ages.

Description:

Touching a stick with their nose seems to have no practical use. But it helps strengthen your doggos focus.

How to teach this trick to your dog:

First, prepare a stick to use. Then, cover its ends with duct tape to protect your dogs nose. After that, proceed with the steps below.

1. Place your canine in front of you.
2. Extend the stick close to your canines face.
3. Wait for them to touch the end of the stick with their nose. When they do, use the clicker.
4. Hand them a treat to reinforce the behavior better.

Potential issues with this trick: They might learn to touch the wrong part of the stick (anywhere but the tip). Which you can reinforce unintentionally. So, only reward them if they touch the end of the stick. This type of precision is necessary for consistency in training.

#6: Down

Suitable for: All ages. But its best learned as a puppy (< 1 year old).

Description:

You need to teach your dog to sit first (trick #3). And getting down is a basic trick, too. But it also builds the foundation for other tricks like #14, #22, and #74.

How to teach this trick to your dog:

1. Ask your canine to sit by holding a treat over their nose.
2. Slowly bring the treat down to their front paws. They must follow it by lowering their head.
3. As soon as they lie down, say the command down.
4. Use the clicker. And immediately reward them with a treat right after.
5. Keep repeating the steps above to establish the behavior.

Potential issues with this trick: Its hard to train for this trick when your pooch is energized. Obviously, they wont lie down when theyre not tired. So, work on this trick after a walk or play session.

#7: Heel

Suitable for: All ages. But its best learned as a puppy (< 1 year old).

Description:

This trick turns your pooch into an obedient walker. As it teaches them to stay close to you. Thats why its a trick that can also stop leash pulling.

How to teach this trick to your dog:

1. Your pooch can start at any position. As long as theyre near you.
2. Hold their leash with your right hand. And reserve the left for treat delivery.
3. Say heel while you hold a treat over their nose. Then, guide them to go to your left side.
4. Once theyre on your left, reward them with praise and treats.
5. Keep repeating steps 3 and 4 for 10 minutes. And do this drill at least twice a day.

Potential issues with this trick: Your dog can get tired of doing this for a long period. SFSPCA suggests you let your pooch walk ahead sometimes. While still not encouraging leash pulling, of course.

Note: If youre left-handed, do the steps with your right hand reserved for treats.

#8: Give paw

Suitable for: All ages.

Description:

How sweet is it to hold hands with your pups paws? But before you get to that, you have to teach them to hold out their paw first.

How to teach this trick to your dog:

1. Ensure your canine is sat down.
2. Hide a treat in your hand and let your pooch smell it. While they do, say the cue paw!
3. Wait for your dog to put their paw over your hand.Note: You could also gently direct them by carefully lifting their paw in your hand.
4. Once they do it on their own, open your hand to give them the treat. While you do, also praise them.

Potential issues with this trick: This trick might result in an opportunistic pup. When theyre seeking your attention, they might paw you all the time. Then you can teach them the not now (trick #10).

Learn more: 15 Dog Breeds That Use Their Paws A Lot

#9: Wave

Suitable for: All ages. Dog must know how to sit (trick #3) and give their paw (trick #8).

Description:

With this trick, you can say hi to your pup. And they can definitely say it back with a cute wave.

How to teach this trick to your dog:

1. Ensure your dog is sitting down and youre standing. Then, say paw, which makes them give it to you.
2. But instead of taking their paw, wave your hand for goodbye. And say the cue bye!
3. They must hold their paw up for a second.
4. Then, reward them with a treat and praise.
5. When repeating, increase the duration of their hold little by little.
6. Once they can hold their paw up for at least 3 seconds, add motion. Wave your hand while saying the cue to get your dog to follow you.
7. Reward them when they do it completely. Which is when they hold their paw up for more than 3 seconds and wave.

Potential issues with this trick: Its really close to the give paw trick (#8). So ensure that you follow the steps closely for accurate results.

#10: Not now

Suitable for: All ages.

Description:

This trick can prevent some potential issues caused by the other ones. You can use this when your pup is seeking your attention, but youre busy and unable to give it to them at the moment.

How to teach this trick to your dog:

1. Catch your dogs attention-seeking behavior. Whether thats pawing you or nudging at you.
2. When theyre seeking your attention, simply look them in the eyes. According to research, theyll avoid eye contact when they detect tension. Along with this, firmly and calmly say the cue, not now.
3. Wait for a few seconds or even a minute before you recognize your dog again. You wont even have to reward them with a treat. Since your attention is enough as a reward. With this, they just learned how to wait for their prize.

Potential issues with this trick: Eye contact can be intimidating for some dogs. Thus, it can cause anxiety or retaliation from them. So carefully watch your pups body language to see if theyre responding the way theyre supposed to be.

#11: Spin

Suitable for: All ages.

Description:

This is a cute and easy trick that pleases lots of dog lovers. Because seeing a dog spin is simply amusing.

How to teach this trick to your dog:

1. Hold a treat over your pups head and lure them into a circle.
2. Reward them once they complete the spin.
3. Do steps 1 and 2 at least 5 times.
4. Add the cue spin as you guide them to a circle.
5. Once they consistently follow your command, ask them to spin without a treat in your hand.
6. Continue rewarding them once they go full circle.
7. As you keep asking them to spin, gradually shorten your hand signals.

Potential issues with this trick: While this doesnt cause any dizziness. Regardless, its still a tiring trick to learn.

#12: Hold (an object)

Suitable for: All ages.

Description:

No hands? No problem. Your pooch can still learn to hold something with their mouth. Not only can that be useful in a few ways, but its also a foundation trick to others in this read.

How to teach this trick to your dog:

Do this while sitting on the floor and Fidos facing you.

1. Show them a toy.
2. If they investigate it, quickly use the clicker. And give them a treat as well.
3. Slightly increase the criteria now. Use reinforcements when they sniff the toy.
4. Next, wait until they put the toy in their mouth. Reward them when they do.
5. Build duration by making them hold the toy in their mouth. Gradually increase the intervals of treat-giving by 1 second each.
6. Instead of praising them, say the command hold. Dont also forget to give them a treat.

Potential issues with this trick: Its time-consuming since the build-up is slow.

#13: Fetch

Suitable for: All ages. Dog must know how to hold first (trick #12).

Description:

As you throw something, Fido chases it, and they give it back to you. Its like you can turn anything into a boomerang with this trick.

How to teach this trick to your dog:

1. Hand your dog a toy and say, hold.
2. When they take it, reward them.
3. After that, get the toy from them again.
4. Then, do the first 2 steps 5 to 10 times.
5. Next, put the toy on the floor and ask them to hold it.
6. Reward them once they pick it up.
7. Do steps 5 and 6 until Fido takes the toy on your command.
8. Introduce the new cue, fetch, while still placing the toy on the ground.
9. Provide rewards when they properly respond to your cues.
10. Gradually build distance between you and the toy. In no time, youll be playing fetch with your pooch.

Potential issues with this trick: This is another time-consuming trick. And youll need to be consistent, even though gaining the result is a slow process.

#14: Army crawl

Suitable for: All ages. Dog must learn to lie down first (trick #6).

Description:

Its not just a simple trick where Fido moves forward while in a down position. Crawling is also a good workout. Since it makes your dog use their core muscles.

How to teach this trick to your dog:

1. Get your dog into a down position using a treat.
2. Once theyre down, slide the treat away from them.
3. Reward them when they crawl to reach the treat.

Potential issues with this trick: This trick uses your dogs core muscles. So overdoing it might cause pulled muscles or soreness.

#15: Ring the bell

Suitable for: All ages. But its best learned as a puppy (< 1 year old).

Description:

This trick is handy when house training your pooch. Because you can use the bell as your dogs way to tell you they need to pee or poop.

How to teach this trick to your dog:

1. Hang the bell somewhere your dog can reach.
2. Using a training stick, ring the bell yourself first.
3. Reward your pup when they touch the bell. At the same time, use a marker like a clicker.
4. Once they know how to ring a bell, incorporate the next action. Which is making them ring it before you take them outside.
5. Instead of the usual treat and praise, reward them by opening the door.

Potential issues with this trick: Problems might arise if you over-rely on treats when reinforcing this trick. Your pooch might ring the bell every time they want a snack.

#16: Come

Suitable for: All ages. Dog must know how to respond to the sit command first (trick #3).

Description:

This trick aims for your pooch to come to you when called. Its useful when you dont want your doggo to get into trouble. Or if youre summoning them to come inside.

How to teach this trick to your dog:

1. Start at a short distance between you and your sat dog. 5 ft (1.5 meters) to 10 ft (3 meters) apart is good enough.
2. Make eye contact with your pooch and say, come cheerfully.
3. If they wont come to you, add more encouragement. Such as clapping your hands or tapping your legs.
4. Reward them with praises and a treat when they finally go to you.
5. Gradually increase the distance between you and them.

Potential issues with this trick: When you over-rely on treats, your pup might always come to you for some.

#17: Take it

Suitable for: All ages.

Description:

Have your pooch take something from you using their mouth. You can use this trick when you want Fido to pick something up.

How to teach this trick to your dog:

1. Hold your canines toy while theyre in front of you.
2. When they grab it, say, take it.
3. Since they have the toy in their mouth, reward them through praise. You can also mark the action using a clicker.

Potential issues with this trick: It can be hard to reinforce it since you cant use treats to encourage it. Or its challenging to give them treats.

#18: Stay

Suitable for: All ages. But its best learned as a puppy (< 1 year old).

Description:

This is the best trick to train your dogs patience. Most dog parents apply this to make their pups wait before eating.

How to teach this trick to your dog:

There are many ways to teach this trick. But for this, youll use the On-a-Leash method. Which is best done in your yard.

1. Put your dog on a leash and walk a few steps.
2. Stop, then face your dog.
3. Hold out your palm and say, stay.
4. Reward them with a treat when they stop.
5. Hold their pause for 1 second. Then, release them with a command like okay.
6. Practice this repeatedly while gradually increasing the time before the release.

Potential issues with this trick: This trick is a test of patience to teach your dog. Thats because dogs are naturally excited and act upon their urges. And this aims to suppress that behavior.

#19: Bow

Suitable for: All ages.

Description:

This is an easy and fun novelty trick where your pup lowers their front limbs. While their bum is pointed up.

How to teach this trick to your dog:

1. Begin with your pooch standing in front of you.
2. Hold the treat above their nose as a lure. Also say the cue, take a bow!
3. Then, move your hand downward. It should be between their legs and under their belly.
4. Reward them when they follow your hand.

Note: They dont have to bow immediately since youre still starting fully.

1. Repeat steps 2 and 3. Little by little, your pooch will drop their shoulders down. Which will get them closer to bowing. Keep rewarding them too.
2. When they get into the bow position, mark it by cheerfully saying the command.
3. Now, only reward them when theyre bowing. And keep marking the trick.

Potential issues with this trick: While teaching this, you might have trouble catching the specific position. As your dog will tend to also lower their hindlimbs. Which puts them in a down position.

#20: Crate

Suitable for: All ages.

Description:

With this trick, your pooch will learn to go to their crate. Which will make kennel time easier for both of you.

How to teach this trick to your dog:

1. Put a leash on your dog to guide them into the kennel better.
2. Open its door.
3. Using a treat in one hand, lure your dog into the kennel and say, crate!
4. Reward them with a treat before closing the door.

Note: Open the door again in a calm manner. So when its time to let them go, you wont have an over-excited dog. If your dog gets overexcited, ignore them. This will teach them that the said behavior doesnt get rewarded.

Potential issues with this trick: If your pup has separation anxiety, it might be harder to teach this.

#21: Speak

Suitable for: All ages.

Description:

They also call this barking on command. Which is a fun and useful trick. Because once you can make your dog speak on command, its easier to get them quiet.

How to teach this trick to your dog:

1. Ready a handful of treats.
2. Make your dog bark by exciting them. Jump or grab their favorite toy and show it to them.

Note: This is easier for fur parents with vocal dogs, such as Huskies.

1. Once they bark, say the cue speak! and mark the action with a clicker.
2. Then, immediately hand them a treat to reward them.
3. Keep rewarding them every time they bark.
4. Add a hand signal. A commonly used one is holding out your hand, palm facing your dog, and closing 4 fingers over your thumb.
5. Continue repeating until your pooch responds to the hand signal and command.

Potential issues with this trick: You must quickly reward and mark the behavior. You have to let your dog know only to bark when you tell them to. Otherwise, they might bark at you demanding treats.

Learn more: 15 Reasons Why Your Dog Barks At You (All Of A Sudden)

#22: Stop barking

Suitable for: All ages.

Description:

If theres a trick to make your dog bark, theres one that can make them stop.

How to teach this trick to your dog:

1. Wait for your dog to bark (dont use the cue).
2. Let them bark for a while. As vocalization is an attention-seeking behavior, you dont want to encourage it directly.
3. Now, once they stop barking, say the cue stop!
4. Then, reward them for being quiet.
5. Repeat every time your pup barks out of nowhere. In the long run, theyll learn that the cue is a sign they must stop barking.

Potential issues with this trick: Timing is everything with this trick. They have to stop barking first before you reward them.

#23: Rollover

Suitable for: All ages. The dog must learn how to lie down first (trick #6).

Description:

This is a famous trick that most dog parents teach their pups. Its basic and entertaining because seeing your pup roll around is cute.

How to teach this trick to your dog:

1. Ask your dog to lie down.
2. While kneeling beside them, hold a treat near the side of their head and nose.
3. Move your hand from their nose to their shoulder. Doing so lures them to roll on their side. At the same time, say the cue, roll over!
4. Reward them if they roll to the other side.

Note: At first, they might only turn their head in the opposite direction. Reward that as well. As it can help reinforce the trick.

1. Keep repeating steps 2 to 4. While also gradually decreasing your hand movement and treat lure.

Potential issues with this trick: Overdoing it might hurt your pups muscles. So ensure not to overwork them or make them roll too far. You can also put a yoga mat or a blanket as the surface where they roll over to make it more comfortable for them. As a result, theyll be more likely to follow the command.

#24: Go potty

Suitable for: All ages. But its best learned as a puppy (< 1 year old).

Description:

Using a simple cue, you can prompt Fido to take a go potty.

How to teach this trick to your dog:

1. First, establish a regular feeding routine. This will make your dogs need to go more predictable. Which can help you determine when to train for this trick.
2. Vets say it takes at least 30 minutes before your dog feels the need to poop. So, closely watch your pooch during that time frame.
3. Once you notice theyre ready, take them outside.
4. Only when theyre assuming their pooping position should you cue, Go potty!
5. And reward them with a treat immediately after theyve finished.

Potential issues with this trick: Theres a lot in play to succeed with this trick. So ensure to establish a routine for your dog. Otherwise, this trick would be all over the place.

#25: Drop it

Suitable for: All ages. Will work best for dogs who know the hold trick (#12).

Description:

Get your dog to let go of an object by dropping it into your hand.

How to teach this trick to your dog:

1. Sit beside your dog and show them a toy.
2. Hold it near their face. And let them play with it.
3. Once theyre tugging the toy, hold a treat to your doggos nose.
4. When they let go of the toy, say the cue drop!
5. Then, give them a treat immediately as reinforcement.
6. After repeating the steps above for several sessions, its time to change the drill a bit. Now, you have to say the cue first. Then, expect them to drop the toy after.
7. And always reward the desired behavior with a treat and/or praise as you repeat.

Potential issues with this trick: This can lead to a behavior where your pup hands you the object randomly. As they might be expecting a treat when they do it.

#26: Cross paws

Suitable for: All ages.Dog must know how to give their paw first (trick #8).

Description:

This is a simple but equally impressive trick. With it, you can show people how obedient and relaxed your pooch can be.

How to teach this trick to your dog:

1. Ensure that your pup is in a down position.
2. Then, using your right hand, ask for their left paw by saying, give paw!
3. Once you take it, put it on a cross with the other one. And thats only when you can reward them for reinforcement.
4. Repeat for at least 5 minutes.
5. Now, change the cue to Cross paws. And repeat the drills as usual. But start gradually removing your receiving hand and just rely on the cue.

Potential issues with this trick: It might take long to reinforce this behavior. Since the distinction from other tricks is minimal.

#27: Off

Suitable for: All ages.

Description:

A cool trick thats going to save you headaches. Teaching it lets you set limits around your home.

How to teach this trick to your dog:

1. Wait until they show poor behavior. A good example is when theyre jumping at you or another person. Or if they hop on places theyre not allowed to.
2. Say the cue off. And lure your pup with a treat (off the couch or down on all 4 if they were jumping on you) thatll distract so they stop doing the undesirable behavior.
3. Once they stop, reward the behavior with a treat.
4. Repeat the steps above every time your pooch shows an unwanted behavior.

Potential issues with this trick: This trick is a bit of a waiting game. Since you have to catch undesirable behaviors to train.

#28: Paws on the lap

Suitable for: All ages.

Description:

This easy trick can make nail-cutting or paw-cleaning sessions of the front paws easier.

How to teach this trick to your dog:

1. While you sit in a chair, position your dog at your side.
2. Pat your lap while saying, lap! to encourage them.
3. Reward them with a treat when they put both their paws on your lap.

Potential issues with this trick: This trick is another way your pup can seek attention and treats. When that happens, counter it with the not now command (found in trick #10).

#29: Belly up!

Suitable for: All ages.

Description:

This is like asking your pup to roll over, except they only need to do it halfway. As they dont need to roll to the other side.

How to teach this trick to your dog:

1. Put a prop beside your canine first. I suggest a pillow or a bed. Which theyll use to stay balanced while in position.
2. Now, hold a treat over your dogs nose. And lure them into the down pose (trick #6).
3. Tip your dog over by moving your hand above their shoulder. Also, say the cue belly up!
4. Once their limbs are up, their belly is showing, and their back is resting on the prop, immediately praise them.
5. Dont feed your dog while theyre upside down. So, quickly roll them back to the side theyre from, and give them the treat.
6. Keep repeating. And gradually decrease the use of treats as a lure. Instead, guide them with your hand. Which will also establish the signal.

Potential issues with this trick: Avoid harm by training in an area with an even and soft surface. Dont do it on tiled or concrete floors. Ideally, there should be a carpet.

#30: Nose it!

Suitable for: All ages.

Description:

Dogs can do more than smell with their nose. Sometimes, they nudge things with it to communicate. And with this trick, you can utilize that nature of theirs to your benefit too.

How to teach this trick to your dog:

1. Prepare a marker where theyll land their nose. For this, I suggest a large and bright-colored Post-it note.
2. Start by getting them interested in the marker. Hold it near their face. Say the cue, nose it!
3. And if they smell it or stick their nose to it, reward them with a treat.
4. Repeat the steps above for at least 5 minutes.
5. Next, put the marker on a wall. And keep practicing the drills like in the previous steps.

Potential issues with this trick: They might start nudging you to seek your attention. If so, you can always counter it with the not now command under trick #10.

Learn more: 11 Cute Reasons Why Your Dog Nudges Things With His Nose

39 cool & funny tricks to teach your dog

#31: Play dead

Suitable for: All ages. Best if the dog knows how to get down in command first (trick #6).

Description:

Of course, this ultimate crowd favorite is the first on the fun list. Get your pooch to act like they just passed out with the play dead trick.

How to teach this trick to your dog:

1. With a treat in your hand, lure your pup to the down position. Then, kneel in front of them.
2. Continue to move your hand toward their shoulder. Ensure they follow it until they carefully plop on their side.
3. When your dog gets down, immediately say, play dead.
4. Wait for at least 1 second, then hand them a treat right after.
5. Repeat and gradually increase the duration between their fall and the reward.

Potential issues with this trick: Remember to lure your pooch on their side slowly. Doing so ensures they dont fall hard on the ground and get hurt.

#32: Cover up

Suitable for: All ages. Best for dogs who know how to roll over (trick #23).

Description:

This can be helpful in tucking an anxious or restless pup. Most of all, its an impressive trick that makes your pooch self-sufficient.

How to teach this trick to your dog:

1st part (learning the foundations separately):

1. Practice over the blanket for an easier association.
2. Ask your pup to roll over. Simply hold a treat over their nose. Then, guide them down and to the side (check trick #23 for comprehensive steps).
3. Repeat step 2 at least 5 to 10 times.
4. Next, teach them how to hold the blanket with their mouth. Take a portion of it, and hand it to them.
5. Give them a treat and praise them for reinforcement (theyll automatically put down the blanket during this).
6. Practice steps 4 to 5 up to 10 times.

2nd part (combining the foundations):

1. First, let them take a portion of the blanket.
2. Use the rollover hand signal with a treat in your hand. Which is when your hand moves from their nose to their shoulder.
3. Reward them with a treat and praise once theyre covered with the blanket.
4. Repeat the steps above at least 10 times since itll take a while to reinforce 2 behaviors simultaneously.
5. Once they take the blanket and roll over properly, start adding a cue. I use cover up! for this.
6. Keep repeating and gradually decrease their treat rewards. Instead, simply hand them the blanket. Then, lure them into rolling over using the hand signal. And reward them through praise.

Potential issues with this trick: Itll take a lot of tries before they learn both parts of the trick.

#33: Catch a treat

Suitable for: All ages.

Description:

It looks like nothing but a simple trick. However, it actually improves your dogs focus, timing, coordination, and balance.

How to teach this trick to your dog:

1. Prepare a handful of treats. And position your pooch in front of you.
2. Do it one treat at a time. Ensure they see youre holding one.
3. Then, toss the treat and say the cue catch!
4. If the treat falls to the floor, you must immediately get it before your pooch. It sounds challenging, but its necessary. In fact, racing them to the treat can motivate them to be faster and eventually catch the treat before you do.
5. Repeat the steps above at least 5 times a day. You dont have to keep the training session long. However, ensure you practice this daily.

Potential issues with this trick: Sometimes, your pup will race to the treat that falls to the floor. Too much of that occurring can affect your pups progress.

#34: Rollers

Suitable for: All ages. Perfect exercise for senior pups (> 6 years old) who can no longer chase and jump objects.

Description:

This trick can teach a puppy how to track a moving disc. Which is a great pre-requisite trick for the next one. But for older pups who can no longer chase things in the air, this is perfect too.

How to teach this trick to your dog:

1. Buy a dog frisbee.

Reminder: Some human discs can injure them.

1. Get them excited about their new toy. Here are some ways to do so:

• Use it as a feeding dish for 1 week.
• Play gentle tug with them using the disc.

1. Let it roll on the ground like a wheel. Say the cue catch!
2. And when your pooch catches the disc, take it from them. Then immediately reward them with a treat.
3. Repeat the drill above for at least 5 minutes daily.

Potential issues with this trick: Use a disc appropriate to your dogs size. If your pup is small, then go for the same disc size. Otherwise, they might have trouble catching it.

#35: Catch frisbee

Suitable for: All ages. Best if the dog knows how to play rollers (trick #34).

Description:

This can help fill your and Fidos exercise needs. So dont be surprised to hear that dog parents get more exercise than non-parents. Thats exactly what this study discovered.

How to teach this trick to your dog:

1. Play rollers with them in the first 5 minutes.
2. Once their eagerness shows, start throwing the disc into the air. But only to a short distance first.

Note: At the start of this step, alternate between rolling and throwing it.

1. Gradually stop rolling it until your dog eagerly chases the frisbee thrown into the air. And also throw it farther, little by little.

Potential issues with this trick: It can be straining to train. Because you have to run around and fetch the disc too.

#36: Kiss

Suitable for: All ages.

Description:

Ready the kiss cam because this sweet trick will sway some hearts.

How to teach this trick to your dog:

1st part (capturing kisses):

1. You have to catch this behavior. So prepare treats as much as possible. (For this, I trained my dog when I sensed shes getting cuddly)
2. When your dog licks you in the face, say the cue kiss!
3. Then, reward them with a treat.

2nd part (encouraging kisses):

1. Prepare treats as rewards.
2. Whenever Fidos near, use the cue for a kiss.

Additional step: You can guide them to where you want them to kiss you. Gently hold their head while they lick you, and redirect it to the area you want (e.g. right cheek)

1. If they come to you and kiss you, reward the behavior with a treat and praise.

Potential issues with this trick: For the first part, youll have to wait forthe behavior to show up. That means starting training with this one requires patience.

#37: Hug

Suitable for: All ages.

Description:

Everybody needs a hug. And that includes most dogs. So, why not teach them the most genuine way to show and strengthen friendships?

How to teach this trick to your dog:

1. Get to your canines level (kneel or sit down in front of them).
2. Put a treat in one hand while you extend the other behind your dogs head.
3. Guide your dogs nose with your hand holding the treat. Put it over your shoulder. So, when they pursue the treat, theyll move toward you.
4. If they follow your hand, let them nibble the treat for a while. And start to position your other hand behind their head.
5. Once youre in the hug position, say the cue hug.
6. Next, hand them a treat as a reward.
7. As you repeat the steps above, gradually increase the duration of the hug. You can do this by letting them hold the position where they nibble the treat.

Potential issues with this trick: The position might initially be awkward to train for.

#38: Weave trick

Suitable for: All ages.

Description:

This trick is also commonly referred to as Slalom. Its when your canine laces through your legs or several poles.

How to teach this trick to your dog:

1. You should start with a short course. Put up to 4 flexible poles or plastic cones.
2. Position your pooch in front of the first obstacle.
3. Then, extend your hand that holds a treat. Ensure that your pup sees it.
4. Use your hand to encourage Fido through the slalom. Also, use a cue to prompt the behavior. For this, I use lets go!
5. Reward and praise them once they reach the end of the course.
6. Repeat steps 2 to 5 at least 6 times a day. You can also add more poles or cones little by little.

Potential issues with this trick: It can be tiring to teach this. Especially since your pup might knock down the poles or cones at the beginning.

#39: Pick-up toys

Suitable for: All ages. Best for dogs who know how to fetch (trick #13).

Description:

Well, lets put a fun trick into use, shall we? With this one, you can teach your pup to clean up after playtime.

How to teach this trick to your dog:

1. First, throw one of your pups toys across the room. And ask them to fetch it.
2. While theyre retrieving it, grab their toy basket. Then, hold a treat over it.
3. Theyll notice the treat when they get back to you. So, say a prompt like lets clean! And theyll be compelled to drop the toy. When they do, catch it with the basket.
4. Quickly reward them with a treat to reinforce the behavior.

Potential issues with this trick: You must be firm with instilling this trick. So ensure that you put away the toy basket once training is done. Otherwise, Fido will think the drill is a playtime extension.

#40: Pick a card!

Suitable for: All ages.

Description:

If you have no one to show off your magic skills to, then your pup can volunteer with this trick.

How to teach this trick to your dog:

1. Start with 1 card first. And hold it out to your dogs face.
2. When they lean in to explore the card, mark the behavior with the clicker.
3. And immediately reward them with a treat for reinforcement.
4. Repeat the steps above for at least 5 minutes. Or until Fido easily get that, they should touch the card.
5. Next, offer the card to their mouth. And say the cue, Pick a card!
6. Once they take it, mark it again with the clicker. And reward immediately.
7. Keep practicing those drills. But eventually, let go of the card once they take it from you.
8. In the long run, you can add more cards to your hand. As long as your dog has learned how to get one using their mouth.

Potential issues with this trick: There isnt any issue aside from the fact that Fido has no idea what card theyre picking.

#41: Leap over a stick

Suitable for: Best for adolescent pups (6 months to 1 year old) and adult dogs (1 to 6 years old). Additionally, they must not have any history of hip dysplasia.

Description:

Improve your dogs agility and put people in awe with this trick.

How to teach this trick to your dog:

1. Prepare the following materials:

• 2 chairs.
• A minimum of 2 books.
• 1 stick (at least 1 inch or 2.5 cm in diameter/thick).

1. Start low first. Put the stick on the floor. Then, ask your dog to sit in front of it.
2. Ensure you have your dogs attention. If so, cross over to the other side of the stick.
3. Call your pup to the other side with the cue leap!
4. Once they cross as well, reward them with a treat.
5. Do steps 2 to 5 at least 5 times before adding height.
6. Now, put the stick over the chairs.
7. Cross it as well to create an example for Fido.
8. Once on the other side, say the cue.
9. Reward them when they leap.
10. You can continue adding height by putting the stick over a book or 2.

Warning: Only use a height appropriate for your pooch. In my experience, I used my dogs height when standing as the limit.

Potential issues with this trick: Once the height is added, your pup might go around the stick. When they do, ignore them. Moreover, your pooch should be coordinated and healthy. Otherwise, theyre at risk of injuries.

#42: Leap over me!

Suitable for: Best for adolescent pups (6 months to 1 year old) and adult dogs (1 to 6 years old). Additionally, they must not have any history of hip dysplasia.

Description:

Heres a bigger challenge and show-off than the previous trick. Because instead of a stick, how about Fido jumping over you?

How to teach this trick to your dog:

Note: Youll need another person to help you out when teaching this.

1. Begin the session by making them leap over a stick first. Do that at least 5 times.
2. Have your helper kneel on their hands and knees.
3. Hold the stick over your helper.
4. Prompt Fido to leap over them by saying the cue (same as when leaping over a stick).
5. Once they do it, reward them with a treat.
6. Randomly alternate between using and not using a stick. Then, gradually remove the stick from the drill. Until its only the person Fidos leaping over.

Potential issues with this trick: This trick might be more challenging if your pup is a toy or small breed.

#43: Leap through a hoop

Suitable for: Best for adolescent pups (6 months to 1 year old) and adult dogs (1 to 6 years old). Additionally, they must not have any history of hip dysplasia.

Description:

With this one, your pup needs to aim their movements to fit through a hoop properly.

How to teach this trick to your dog:

1. Get a hula hoop where your dog fits appropriately.
2. Place the hoop on the floor.
3. Encourage your pup to step into the center of the hoop. Do that by offering them a treat on that spot.
4. When they step in, reward them immediately.
5. Repeat steps 2 to 4 at least 5 times.
6. Next, lift the hoop with one hand. While the end of the hoop is still on the floor. Your pup has to be facing one end of the hoop.
7. Lure them with a treat, so they step through the hoop.
8. Reward them with a treat and praise when they successfully step through it.
9. Start to raise the hoop just a few inches from the ground. Start adding a cue like leap while repeating steps 7 and 8.
10. Gradually increase the hoops elevation from the floor. Little by little, your pup will need to leap to get through the hoop.
11. Always reward and praise them when they get to the other side.

Potential issues with this trick: Even though your pup knows how to leap properly, this trick wont come easy. Moreover, it has a lot of buildups since you must first introduce the hoop to them.

#44: Bring me

Suitable for: All ages. Dog must know the hold command first (trick #12).

Description:

Its a fun party trick. But when its you and your pooch, its useful for you too. You can ask Fido to bring your slippers, keys, or their leash when its time for a walk.

How to teach this trick to your dog:

1. Ask your pooch to take the toy in your hand and hold it.
2. While theyre holding, move at least 3 or 4 feet away from them.
3. Tell them to come to you using the cue bring it!
4. To encourage them further, visibly hold a treat in your hand. Or enthusiastically tap on your legs or clap.
5. Hand them the treat once they walk toward you and give you the toy.
6. Go back to where you started and repeat steps 1 to 5.

Potential issues with this trick: Sometimes, they might drop the object while walking toward you. Dont reward that behavior to avoid reinforcing it.

#45: Object or treat hunt

Suitable for: All ages. Itll be helpful if your dog knows the stay command (trick #18).

Description:

This trick is a huge favor to and of their curious nature. Which helps keep Fido sharp and active.

How to teach this trick to your dog:

1. Ensure your dog is sat down.
2. While in front of them, visibly hold an item theyre familiar with. I recommend a small toy that they really like.
3. Once you have their attention, let them smell the item.
4. Then, hide it under something obvious, like a paper bag or a towel. Do this in front of them.
5. Tell them to find it.
6. Reward them with a treat once they remove the cover and touch the item with their paw or nose.
7. Repeat the steps several times. However, change the location of the object. And make it more difficult each time.

Potential issues with this trick: Some dogs have better sniffing abilities than others. Thats why for some, this is an easy trick to learn. While others struggle to do it.

#46: Limp

Suitable for: All ages. The dog must be leash-trained.

Description:

Time to put your dog through the acting scene. With this trick, theyll learn how to limp on command.

How to teach this trick to your dog:

1. Put on their leash and walk them for at least 5 steps.
2. While walking, carefully tug their leash upward. To prompt it, use a cue such as Limp!
3. Wait for them to lift up their dominant paw. And reward them with a treat when they do.
4. Repeat steps 1 to 3 until the dog learns to limp for more than 5 seconds.

Potential issues with this trick: Since theyll learn how to fake a limp, it can be confused with a real case of it.

#47: Shell game

Suitable for: All ages.

Description:

Test your dogs intelligence by letting them find a treat under similar cups.

Note: The cups youll use can make or break this trick. I dont suggest paper or plastic cups. Instead, go for clay pots. Theyre not easy to knock over. And they have holes that allow the treats smell to go through.

How to teach this trick to your dog:

1. Rub some treats on the pot where you intend to hide the rewards. This will help Fido choose the right pot.
2. Start with 1 pot first. Show it to your pooch. As well as the treat youre going to hide.
3. Cover the treat with the pot. Say where is it? as a cue.
4. Naturally, your pup will smell around the clay pot. And theyll try to open it by putting their paw over it. When they do, uncover the treat. And let Fido have their reward.
5. During the first 5 times, stick with 1 pot only. Then, add another pot that wont have any reward.
6. If they pick the pot with the treat, reward them by uncovering it.
7. Add another pot to increase difficulty. Also shuffle them along. And always reward your pup when they pick the right one.

Potential issues with this trick: At first, your pooch wont know what theyre supposed to do. Especially when you add other pots. So do this with extra patience.

#48: Which hand? game

Suitable for: All ages.

Description:

This is similar to the shell game. But you wont need any cups or pots, just your hands.

How to teach this trick to your dog:

1. Be face-to-face with your canine.
2. Visibly put 1 treat in one hand while leaving the other empty.
3. Hold out both hands near your dogs face and say, Which hand?
4. Repeat steps 2 to 3 at least 5 times.
5. Next, dont show Fido where youre hiding their treat. You can put your hands behind your back. And let Fido guess.

Potential issues with this trick: This can encourage attention-seeking in your pooch. As well as treat demands by pawing your hands.

#49: Smile!

Suitable for: All ages.

Description:

Want a picture-perfect dog? This tricks got you.

How to teach this trick to your dog:

1. Sit beside your dog and tickle their whiskers.
2. If they show even a bit of their teeth, say the cue Smile! This is where you reward them as well.
3. Repeat those 5 to 10 times daily.

Potential issues with this trick: Itll take a while for your pup to understand what they need to do.

#50: Peek-a-boo

Suitable for: All ages.

Description:

An amusing party trick where your pooch pops their head out from between your legs.

How to teach this trick to your dog:

1. Stand with your dog behind you.

Note: If your pooch is small, you might have to kneel to make less space.

1. Visibly hold a treat between your knees.
2. Further encourage them to step through by calling them.
3. Once theyre in between your legs, say the cue, peek-a-boo! before rewarding them.
4. Repeat the steps above at least 5 times. And gradually decrease the need for a treat lure. Use the cue alone instead.

Potential issues with this trick: This trick isnt for everybody. For example, your pooch is a giant breed. While youre just as big as them. So, theyre not going to fit where they need to be.

#51: Load up the launcher

Suitable for: All ages. But they must be used to using an automatic ball launcher. It also helps to train them on the drop it command first (trick #25).

Description:

Its not just a fun trick. But also an assistive one during play sessions with an automatic ball launcher.

How to teach this trick to your dog:

1. Recall the drop it command at least 5 times. While you do, ensure youre beside the launcher. Doing so guarantees they make a positive association with the machine.
2. Next, get closer to the launcher. This time, your dog should be on the machines side. And your catching hand is placed above the launcher and below Fidos mouth.
3. Say drop it!
4. When they let go of the ball, immediately drop it into the launcher as well.
5. Right after that, reward them with a treat and praise.
6. Gradually fade out the use of your hand. Begin to do so once they consistently drop the ball at the top of the launcher.

Potential issues with this trick: This will take a lot of training sessions to perfect. So your patience is much needed.

#52: Carry purse

Suitable for: All ages. Its less suitable for small breeds. As well as dogs who have history of teeth problems. Moreover, the dog must learn the hold command first (trick #12).

Description:

Most dogs love to carry things with their mouth. So this will be an amusing trick for both of you.

How to teach this trick to your dog:

1. Say hold to your pup and hand them your purses handle.
2. When they do, praise them as reinforcement.
3. Take the purse back, and reward them with a treat.
4. Do the first 3 steps 5 times.
5. Then, ask them to hold your purse again. However, use a different cue now, like, carry this.
6. Now, dont take the purse back immediately. Instead, walk at least 3 steps and prompt them to do the same.
7. Once done with steps 5 and 6, reward your pup immediately.
8. Repeat and gradually increase the length of the walk before rewarding them.

Potential issues with this trick: Ensure that your purse is size-appropriate for your pup. If theyre a tiny breed, they can only carry a small purse. But if theyre a larger pup, they can carry medium handbags.

#53: Carry groceries

Suitable for: All ages. Its less suitable for small breeds. As well as dogs who have history of teeth problems. Moreover, the dog must learn the hold command first (trick #12).

Description:

Have your dog fetch the grocery bags from the car to your kitchen.

How to teach this trick to your dog:

1. Recall training for the previous trick (#52) for at least 10 minutes. Do it near your parked car. Or anywhere the grocery bags will come from. If the garage is too far from the kitchen, I suggest just starting at the door.
2. Then, ask your pup to hold a grocery bag by saying a cue.
3. Walk from the car to the kitchen. While you do, encourage your pup continuously.
4. When they get to the kitchen, praise them and reward them appropriately.

Potential issues with this trick: It can strain your pup if the distance from the pick-up is far from the drop-off. So be considerate and choose the appropriate starting point.

#54: Take off socks

Suitable for: All ages.

Description:

This is a helpful trick for dog parents with special conditions. Or even a simple backache. Because you wont have to bend your back to remove your socks anymore.

How to teach this trick to your dog:

1. Start by putting the sock over your hand. But ensure a lot of it is hanging. You dont want your pooch to bite and pull your hand.
2. Show it to your pooch and encourage them to pull it by moving it around. Also say the cue, socks off!
3. Once theyve completely taken it off, reinforce the behavior by quickly rewarding them with a treat. At the same time, get the sock from them again.
4. Repeat the previous steps at least 5 times.
5. Next, put the sock on your foot. Still ensuring that its loose.
6. Continue repeating and rewarding to reinforce the behavior.

Potential issues with this trick: This isnt ideal if youre trying to stop your pup from chewing your socks. As this trick can only encourage the behavior further.

Also read: Dogs And Socks: 33 Burning Questions Answered + 5 Tips

#55: High five

Suitable for: All ages. The dog must also learn trick #8 first.

Description:

This time, your doggos paw will hit your palm for a high five.

How to teach this trick to your dog:

1. Ask them to give their paw by saying, give paw!
2. Change hand position into a high five.
3. When they get their paw up, gently hit their paw with your palm.
4. Then, say the cue high five!
5. Also, reward them with a treat.

Potential issues with this trick: Your pup will learn to paw you for attention. If thats the case, just use command #10: Not now.

#56: Play piano

Suitable for: Best for adolescent pups (6 months to 1 year old) and adult dogs (1 to 6 years old).

Description:

Your pooch is smart enough to learn to play the piano. So, why not teach them how to do so?

How to teach this trick to your dog:

Stage 1 (playing whatever):

1. Safely sit your canine in front of the piano.
2. Point to the key you want them to press. And cheerfully say the cue play!
3. When they hit a key, reward them with a treat.
4. Repeat the steps above several times. And you can point to different keys each time.

Note: You can teach them to play a specific part of a song. Itll work best if you put markers on the keys you want them to press. Then, simply point to them when teaching your dog.

Potential issues with this trick: Remember that the piano youre going to use might get scratched. Or get a bit damaged.

#57: Circle an object

Suitable for: All ages. Perfect for puppies (< 1 year old) with frequent zoomies.

Description:

Dogs love going in circles. But it can be straining when they do it randomly. So, teach this trick to manage their circling behavior.

How to teach this trick to your dog:

1. Start with an object at the center.
2. Then, put a treat in your hand as a lure.
3. Hold it over your dogs nose, and guide them to circle the object. Say the cue Go around!
4. Once they did a full circle, mark the behavior with a clicker. And also hand them the treat you once used as lure.
5. Keep practicing while gradually decreasing the use of treats. Instead, use your hand as a guide and a signal thatll help reinforce the cue.

Potential issues with this trick: For some dogs, this might be difficult to generalize. Since the objects you use at the center wont always be the same.

#58: Act ashamed

Suitable for: All ages.

Description:

According to AKC, the jurys still out on whether dogs feel complex emotions. Some of which are guilt and shame. Regardless, you can teach your pooch to look like they feel the latter when they miss a trick or misbehave.

How to teach this trick to your dog:

1. Put a small piece of tape on the bridge of their nose (dont cover where they breathe).
2. Say the cue, what a shame!
3. Wait for them to put their paw up their nose.

Note: It can take a while, but be patient.

1. Reward them with a treat when they cover their nose with their paw. At the same time, remove the tape.
2. Optional: You can also mark the behavior with the clicker while handing them the reward.
3. Repeat the drills above. Sometimes, dont put a tape anymore. Just use the cue to prompt Fido.

Potential issues with this trick: Some dogs dont mind having tape on their face. Which will compromise the trick. When that happens, I suggest gently scratching their nose as a prompt instead.

#59: Whos your best bud?

Suitable for: All ages. The dog must know the wave trick first (#9).

Description:

Heres an adorable trick where your pooch hugs another canine.

How to teach this trick to your dog:

1. Start by making them wave their paws using the cue Wave!
2. Do that for 5 minutes. And always reward them when they display the behavior.
3. Get a stool or object the same height as your pooch when standing upright. Position them beside it.
4. Now, ask them to wave again. And they must put their paw(s) over the object.
5. When they do, reward them with a treat. And redo the steps again.
6. Once theyre putting their paw(s) over the stool easily, time to change the cue. You can say something like, Whos your best bud?
7. Its time to transfer the trick from the object to another dog. So, get their canine friend and have them sit side by side.
8. Continue the drill as usual. And dont forget to reward the dog who receives the touch or hug.

Potential issues with this trick: Both dogs must be socialized with each other. And must have a great relationship. If theyre fighting or aloof, this trick would be challenging to train.

#60: Soccer

Suitable for: Best for puppies (<1 year old) and adult dogs (1 to 6 years old).

Description:

If theres a Canine World Cup, your pup can qualify to play with this trick. Also, playing soccer is great for your pups coordination.

How to teach this trick to your dog:

1st part (the basics):

1. Get them interested in a soccer ball. So start by playing it with them inside the house.
2. Reward them with a treat when they use their paw to kick the ball.

Note: Dont reward them when they nudge the ball. You dont want their mouth near it. Otherwise, they might be too interested in the ball and end up chewing it.

1. Reciprocate their playful behavior by passing the ball to them. Also, encourage them by using praise. Doing so will keep them interested. And the goal is to have them run while kicking the ball.
2. Repeat the drills and eventually change location to the soccer field. So you can teach your pup to play with the ball at a long distance.

2nd part (ball retrieval):

1. Ensure that your pup is focused on the ball in your possession.
2. Kick it at a close distance (not more than 10 feet away).
3. Encourage them to pursue it and return to you using verbal cues.

Note: If they pursue the ball but dont bring it back to you, run to their side. Then, kick the ball a bit as well and pass it to them.

1. Go over the drill several times. Do it until your pup knows how to retrieve the ball themselves.

Potential issues with this trick: Use a ball bigger than your dogs mouth when training. Otherwise, they might only pick the ball up with their mouth.

#61: Basketball

Suitable for: Best for puppies (<1 year old) and adult dogs (1 to 6 years old). They must know the following tricks: fetch (#13) and drop it (#25).

Description:

Turn your canine into a baller with this impressive trick. Plus, its also good for exercise and agility.

How to teach this trick to your dog:

1. Buy a basketball toy set. Dont assemble it yet.
2. Put the ball and rim on the floor.
3. Then, ask your pooch to pick the ball up using the fetch cue.
4. Once the ball is in their mouth, tell them to drop it into the rim. Reward them with a treat when they do.
5. Repeat the steps above several times. Sometimes, you can remove your hold over the rim when asking them to drop the ball.
6. After several tries, you can add the net to the rim. Then, keep practicing the drills while its still on the ground.
7. Keep practicing the trick while gradually raising the rim from the floor. I suggest doing it 2 inches (5 cm) at a time. Do it until youre standing up. And hold it up to 3 inches (7.5 cm) above your dogs head.
8. You can assemble the whole basketball toy in the long run. Then, continue practicing the drills.
9. Start putting the ball several feet away from the basketball ring.
10. Then, ask them to fetch it and continue the drills as usual.

Potential issues with this trick: Dont let your pooch do the drills while in the down position. Ensure theyre always standing up while doing the drills. Moreover, if your pup is small, keep the height of the basketball ring low.

#62: Who do you love?

Suitable for: All ages.

Description:

Theres no denying that your pup loves you. But how about teaching them a heartwarming trick that proves it further? Let them point at you when you ask them who they love.

How to teach this trick to your dog:

1. Ask your pup to sit using the appropriate cue.
2. Then, tell them to give their paw to you.
3. However, you wont actually take their paw. Instead, let it hang in the air.
4. While their paw is up, cheerfully say the cue, who do you love?
5. So, you can hand them a treat as a reward for holding their paw up.
6. Repeat the drill several times until they raise their paw on cue.

Potential issues with this trick: Its similar to the wave trick. But this doesnt need any hand movements. So, stay still during training to avoid reinforcing the wrong trick.

#63: Pass a note

Suitable for: All ages.

Description:

This is a fun household trick. Its where your pup delivers hand-written messages to your housemates.

How to teach this trick to your dog:

1. Ask someone in your household to help you. Theyll act as the receiver of the note. And theyll also be handing the treats to your pooch.
2. Start by putting your pup and the receiver in different corners of the room. Ensure theyre visible to each other.
3. Attach the note to your dogs collar. Or let them hold it with their mouth.
4. Tell your dog, find [receivers name]! This acts as the cue.
5. At first, the receiver can call your pup to them. They can do so by tapping their legs or cheerfully calling Fido.
6. Once your pooch goes to the receiver, the latter must take the note first. Then, they can reward your canine with a treat. To easily reinforce the behavior, they can also mark the behavior with a clicker.
7. Keep repeating the drill. But gradually lose the invitation from the receiver. Also, you can increase the distance between the 2. And even start putting them in different rooms.

Potential issues with this trick: If you let them carry the note with their mouth, better it inside a ziplock bag. Because the note might get soaked in drool. Plus, this isnt a general trick. So, you need to train your pup to deliver notes to each household member.

#64: Tug of war

Suitable for: Best for puppies (<1 year old) and adult dogs (1 to 6 years old).

Description:

Teaching this trick is a great way to build your relationship with your pooch. Moreover, it helps instill training rules since its about control.

How to teach this trick to your dog:

1. Choose a toy to tug with. Get your dog excited over it by playing it with them.
2. Once the toy is in their mouth, tug gently once. This creates the idea that youre after the toy. Which builds their interest in it. Moreover, this is where you say the cue tug!
3. However, immediately let them win by giving them the toy back. Cheer when you hand it to them for reinforcement.
4. To stop the game, hold the toy still. You can even say the word stop as a cue. And wait for your pup to let go of the toy.
5. Reward them with a treat when they do.
6. Repeat the drill only up to 5 times a day. So that your dog wont get bored with the toy. Moreover, dont let them play with the toy unless you train them for this trick.

Potential issues with this trick: Some dogs wont be initially interested in training for this trick. When that happens, choose a different toy to play with and try again.

#65: Put in the laundry basket

Suitable for: All ages. Dog must know the drop it command first (trick #25).

Description:

Have your pup help you out with chores by teaching them this simple trick.

How to teach this trick to your dog:

1. Scatter clothes on the floor. And prepare the laundry basket nearby.
2. Point to a piece of clothing and say, laundry! as a cue.
3. If your pup doesnt pick it up, you can hold it near the floor and hand it to them.
4. Once they have it, lure them near the laundry basket using your hand that holds a treat.
5. Then, ask them to drop it into the basket.
6. When they do, reward them with the treat youre holding.
7. Tell them to pick up the rest of the scattered clothes by repeating the steps above.

Potential issues with this trick: Dogs dont automatically generalize tricks. So it might not work easily when you present them with a different basket.

#66: Fetch the mail (from the door)

Suitable for: All ages. Best for dogs who know the take it command (trick #17).

Description:

You dont have to get up when the mailman drops your letters on your front door. With this fun trick, you can easily ask Fido to fetch them for you.

How to teach this trick to your dog:

1. Hold some letters in your hand. And if your canine looks at it or their nose touches it, reward them with a treat.
2. Repeat that up to 10 times to make a positive association with the mail.
3. Next, say take it and hand the mail to them. So that they hold it with their mouth.
4. And once they do, take it back before handing them a treat.
5. Keep practicing the drill above. Sometimes, you can move the letters around. Or put it on the floor.
6. Then, move to the door. And put the letters halfway through the mail slot.
7. Use a different cue. Say, post! while encouraging them to take the mail.
8. And reward them when they hand the mail to you.
9. Repeat steps 6 to 8 while moving away from the door. So that Fido learns to retrieve the mail even if youre far from the slot.

Potential issues with this trick: If your dog is the drooly kind, they might wet the letters upon retrieval.

#67: Look here

Suitable for: All ages.

Description:

This is simply a fun trick where Fido follows your cue on where to look. Is it right? Or left? Maybe up?

How to teach this trick to your dog:

1. Tell your pup sit! to put them in the starting position.
2. Simply look at your pooch and observe them.
3. This is a waiting game. So catch their glances. Start with a single direction first. If they look to the left first, say, left!
4. Then, mark the behavior with a clicker. At the same time, hand them a treat for reinforcement.

Note: Steps 3 and 4 happen quickly. So ensure that you watch closely.

1. Keep repeating the steps above. You can even direct them with your finger or use a treat as a lure. But if you do, gradually decrease using them in the long run. As you need to rely on the cue alone.

Potential issues with this trick: You need excellent timing when training for this. Otherwise, it might cause delays in Fidos progress.

#68: Walking with another canine

Suitable for: All ages. But its best learned as a puppy (< 1 year old). The dog must be leash-trained as well.

Description:

Dogs can easily get excited. Especially about their fellow canines. But you can teach yours to behave and walk with another pooch. Which can make walks with them more leisurely.

Fun fact: This trick can also contribute to the proper socialization of your pup. And research says sufficient socialization leads to a more obedient doggo.

How to teach this trick to your dog:

1st day (building a relationship):

1. Ask a friend to come over with their dog. This aims to teach your pup how to behave with other canines.
2. Once their furry friend is around, put your pup on a leash.
3. Walk your pooch while the other canine watches.

Note: Your pup can be over-excited during this. Especially since theyre bound while their peer isnt. While they might jump and bark, remain calm and keep walking.

1. Wait for your pup to calm down. When they do, reward them with a treat and praise.
2. Spend 10 minutes walking around the other pooch. And reward your pup when they gently play.

Pro tip: This will work better if you take another day to take turns with your friend and their pooch. They can leash train their pup to be calm around yours too.

2nd day (walking together):

1. Put your pup and their canine friend on a leash. Then, proceed to walk.
2. At first, theyre going to be playing with each other. Let them be.
3. Reward both for being calm while walking.

3rd day (lose the leash):

1. Start with leash-walking first. To ensure that they recall their previous training.
2. After 10 minutes, you can remove their leashes.
3. Continue walking while staying close to them.
4. If theyre calm, reward them. But if one of them misbehaves, put their leashes back on.

Note: For the latter, wait another 10 minutes before losing the leash. Then, repeat steps 3 and 4 accordingly.

Potential issues with this trick: It requires a lot of time and effort. It also needs serious cooperation from everyone involved. Since results are dependent on every individuals behavior.

#69: Stick out tongue

Suitable for: All ages

Description:

Get your pup ready for a wacky picture with this funny trick.

How to teach this trick to your dog:

1. Put a little yogurt or ice cream in a cup.
2. Let Fido lick the almost-empty cup for a short time.
3. Pull away, and use the clicker while they lick their lips. This marks the behavior.
4. And to reinforce it further, reward them with a treat.
5. Offer them the cup again. And repeat the steps above.
6. As you repeat, introduce a cue like show me your tongue after at least 10 drills.
7. Lose the cup over time and rely on the cue to prompt the behavior. And dont forget to reward them when they show their tongue.

Potential issues with this trick: You can train for this trick without a clicker. But I highly suggest using it. Because it can make reinforcement faster and easier.

32 advanced tricks to teach your dog

#70: Walk themselves

Suitable for: All ages. The dog must know take it (trick #17) first. Best if your canine is leash-trained (trick #7 can help) as well.

Description:

Theres no denying it its definitely entertaining to see a dog walk themselves like theyre so self-sufficient. Like this Goldie who wanders the street of Chicago:

How to teach this trick to your dog:

1. Hand your dog their leash by using the take it command.
2. Once they hold it, take it from them again.
3. Then, immediately reward them with praise and a treat.
4. Repeat step 1, and walk beside your pooch for 1 to 2 seconds. Then, do step 2 again. Dont forget to reward them as well.
5. Gradually increase the time between step 1 and the reward.

Potential issues with this trick: If your doggo is over-excited about walks, this can be extra challenging for you.

#71: Sit pretty

Suitable for: Best for adolescent pups (6 months to 1 year old) and adult dogs (1 to 6 years old). Additionally, they must not have any history of spinal issues.

Description:

Teach your pup a great trick for their core. Moreover, it improves their balance and body awareness.

How to teach this trick to your dog:

1. Practice this trick on a surface that has traction. A carpeted floor or outside on the grass will do.
2. Your dog must be sitting down. And get behind their back. So, you can support them when they sit pretty.
3. Hold a treat over their nose. And lift your hand up. Say the cue, sit pretty!
4. Theyre going to reach for the treat and lift their feet up. If they struggle to balance, support them in their belly.
5. Once theyre up for at least 2 seconds, use the clicker to mark the position.
6. Then, immediately reward them with a treat and praises.
7. Repeat the steps above, and gradually move away from your pup. So they can do the trick without your support.

Potential issues with this trick: Some dogs have naturally strong muscles. While others dont. And this trick wont be easy for the latter.

#72: Stand tall

Suitable for: Best for adult dogs (1 to 6 years old). Additionally, they must not have any history of spinal issues.

Description:

Improve your dogs balance by making them stand on their hind legs.

How to teach this trick to your dog:

1. Start with your dog in the sit position.
2. Hold a treat over their nose. And move your hand upward, so your dog stands up. Add the cue, stand tall!
3. Hand them the treat as a reward when they get up on their toes. No matter how short the duration is.
4. Keep practicing the drills. Eventually, your pup will gain more balance. Which will prolong their position when standing up.
5. While repeating, also gradually decrease the use of treats. Instead, rely on the cue as a prompt.

Potential issues with this trick: Not all dogs are good with balancing. So carefully assess your canines abilities. Determine how long they can stand up.

#73: Walk backward

Suitable for: All ages.

Description:

Want to wow people? Then show off your canine who can walk backward.

How to teach this trick to your dog:

1. Make your dog to sit in front of you. And visibly hold a treat in your hand.
2. Then, take one step toward your dog. Also say the cue back up! When you do, ensure that you exert a little bit of social pressure.
3. With that, they must take one or a few steps back. When they do, reward them with the treat youre holding.
4. Repeat the steps above. And eventually, you can increase the steps that you take forward. So that your pup walks more backward.
5. Once they mastered the drill, start relying on the cue alone. Instead of always moving forward.

Potential issues with this trick: Some doggos will sit when you move forward. That means your lure placement is too high up. So hold the treat at their eye level.

#74: Crawl backward

Suitable for: All ages. Best for dogs who know how to get down in command (trick #6).

Description:

Upgrade the previous tricks difficulty. Because this time, your pup would crawl in reverse.

How to teach this trick to your dog:

1. Tell your dog get down to start them in that position.
2. Lower yourself in your canines position as well. Doing this ensures you also dont do the lure placement wrong.
3. Move toward your dog. Use a bit of social pressure. And say the cue scooch!
4. Even if they only put one paw backward, thats enough. So reward them.
5. Continue the drill above. While taking more steps toward them.
6. Eventually, transition to practicing only using the cue.

Potential issues with this trick: Ensure the lure placement is correct. Otherwise, they might only walk backward.

#75: Skateboarding

Suitable for: Best for adolescent pups (6 months to 1 year old) and adult dogs (1 to 6 years old). They must also know how to stay (trick #18). Its also most suitable for small to medium breeds who fit on a skateboard.

Description:

Let people know you have a cool doggo with this awesome skateboarding trick.

How to teach this trick to your dog:

1. Encourage your dog to go near the skateboard and investigate. When they sniff it or nudge it, reward them. This creates a positive association with the skateboard.
2. Put your foot in front of the skateboard to stop it from moving.
3. Call your pup and point to the skateboard while saying a cue like up-up! This encourages them to put their front paws over the skateboard.
4. When they do, reward them with a treat.
5. Repeat steps 3 and 4 several times.
6. Next, add a stay command when they put their paws over the skateboard. And slowly back away.
7. Then, reward them for staying.
8. Repeat the drills, but gradually increase the duration between the stay command and the reward.
9. Next, tie something to the skateboard to pull it along.
10. Ask them to do the same drills above. But while you make them stay, pull the skateboard forward using the string. Make them follow the movement by luring them with their treat reward.
11. Keep repeating steps 10 to 11. And eventually, lose the string to rely on your dogs momentum alone.

Potential issues with this trick: Harmful incidents may occur if you dont practice this in a spacious and safe place.

#76: Handstand

Suitable for: Best for adult dogs (1 to 6 years old). Additionally, they must not have any history of spinal issues. They must also learn how to walk backward first (trick #73).

Description:

Many people cant learn how to do a handstand. So, its impressive if a dog beats that group with this trick.

How to teach this trick to your dog:

1. Start with a low ramp. And position your dog with their back to it.
2. Say the cue back up! to make them walk in reverse.
3. Once theyre up the ramp, reward them with a treat immediately.
4. Repeat the steps above. And gradually adjust the ramps steepness as your pup progresses.
5. Once the ramp gets steep, continue practicing on that level more than you had on the previous ones. Because you have to work on your dogs muscle memory. So, you can prepare them for a handstand.
6. Work with the back up command until Fido successfully keeps their balance at a 90-degree angle.

Potential issues with this trick: Not all dogs have the body type to do this. For example, Dachshunds might have trouble with this trick. So, keep that thing in mind in teaching this trick.

#77: Turn the light switch on or off

Suitable for: All ages. Dog must be taught how to touch and follow a stick (trick #5).

Description:

Most people know that feeling when youre too lazy to get up from bed and turn off the lights. With this trick, you dont have to feel that way again. Because Fido can do it for you.

How to teach this trick to your dog:

1. Point to the light switch using the touch stick. Doing so will make them hop up. And their paws will be resting on the walls. Thats the ideal position.
2. Direct your dogs nose to the exact switch using the stick. Also say the cue flip it.
3. Reward them with a treat when their nose touches the switch.
4. Manipulate the stick into a motion where theyll move the switch successfully.
5. When the light turns off, reward them immediately. During this, theyll realize the effects of their actions and associate everything.
6. Keep repeating until your pooch turns the switch on. And not just hit it with their nose.
7. Repeat the same process when teaching them how to turn it off.

Potential issues with this trick: If your pooch is small, they wont reach the wall switch. Thats why this is best for dog parents who have medium to large breeds.

#78: Name this and that

Suitable for: All ages. Best if they know the give paw command first (trick #8).

Description:

Dogs are smarter than some people give them credit for. So, show off your genius pup as they name some household items.

How to teach this trick to your dog:

1. Hold out your hand and say paw.
2. Reward them with a treat when they touch your hand.
3. Do steps 1 and 2 at least 5 to 10 times.
4. Next, hold an item in your hand. Call the object by its name as a cue.
5. When they touch the object, reward them with a treat.
6. Repeat the steps above until they can recognize the objects name. Even if youre not holding it.

Potential issues with this trick: Your pooch can be clueless for a long time. So dont tire them out. I suggest only practicing this trick for no more than 10 minutes daily. If they dont do well during that time, dont force it and try again tomorrow.

#79: Close the door

Suitable for: All ages. Best if the dog knows how to high-five (trick #55).

Description:

Have you ever had someone walk into your room, leave, and not close the door? With this trick, you wont have to get up to fix that persons mistake. You can easily ask Fido to close the door for you.

How to teach this trick to your dog:

1. Recall high-five training using the cue you used. Do that for at least 5 minutes.
2. Start asking for high fives near an open door. And always reward your pup with a treat when they do it.
3. Now, instead of receiving their paw. Take your hand away so their paw touches the door and pushes it. Say the cue, door!
4. They have to close the door before you can reward them entirely.
5. Keep practicing the steps above. And consistently use the cue.

Potential issues with this trick: When starting, only open the door by a little. With that, its easier for them to close it. Because your pup doesnt know what exactly it is they need to do. Moreover, expect that a small pup will struggle with closing a heavy door.

#80: Pull

Suitable for: All ages. Best for leash-trained adult dogs (1 to 6 years old). As well as medium to large canines.

Description:

This can provide great exercise for your pooch. And its best for service dogs whose parents cant carry too much load.

How to teach this trick to your dog:

This works best if your pup is used to wearing a harness. If not, work on that first for better results.

1. While you walk them, pull a wagon using your other hand.
2. Practice cart commands while walking. Use the following accordingly: lets go, go back, and stop.
3. Reward them every time they respond appropriately to the commands.
4. Time to attach them to the wagon. For some, theres an option to hook or tie. Anything will work as long as the attachment is strong and secure.
5. Continue walking with your pooch while theyre bound to the wagon.
6. Repeat steps 2 and 3.
7. Gradually add weight to the wagon as your pup improves their responses to the commands.

Potential issues with this trick: Toy and small breeds wont do great in this trick. You can still teach them. However, the wagon and its load shouldnt be more than half their weight. Moreover, dont include any sharp and hard objects on the wagon for their safety.

#81: Fetch drink from the fridge

Suitable for: All ages. Dog must know how to tug (trick #64) and take it command (#17). As well as the nose it command (trick #30).

Description:

Want a soda? Or maybe your usual beer from the fridge? Maybe even a bottle of water. With this trick, you wont have to walk to the fridge. Just tell your pup to get you a drink.

How to teach this trick to your dog:

1. Ask your pooch to grab the drink first by handing it to them. And say, take it.
2. When they get it, take it from them. Then, instantly reward them with a treat. Do this for at least 5 minutes.
3. Next, put the drink inside the fridge. I suggest putting it on the lowest shelf for easy access.
4. Repeat the steps above for another 5 minutes minimum. But this time, use an appropriate cue like water, please!
5. Next, teach your pup to open the fridge door. Start by attaching a rope to it.
6. Tell Fido to tug! the rope.
7. Once they open the door, reward them with a treat.
8. Say the cue you used for drink retrieval.
9. Moving on to closing the door after. Stick a bright-colored Post-it note to the fridge door.
10. Then, say the cue nose it! so they nudge it close with their nose.
11. Repeat the drills by combining all of those together. Until you start with only the cue water, please! Because your pup will eventually learn the association between opening the door and closing it when they retrieve a drink for you.

Potential issues with this trick: Its a complicated trick to train for. Because you need to teach them some other foundation tricks first.

#82: Get your dish

Suitable for: All ages. Dog must learn the name of their dish or bowl first (trick #78). And they should know how to hold (trick #12).

Description:

With this trick, you wont have to bend down and pick up Fidos dish. Theyll do it for you and simply hand it to you.

How to teach this trick to your dog:

1. Hold your pups plate in your hand and say the cue bowl or dish. Do this while facing your pooch.
2. Your pup should put their paw over the dish. When they do, immediately reward them with a treat.
3. Keep practicing the steps above for 5 minutes.
4. Next, put it on the floor and ask them to hold.
5. Wait for at least 3 seconds before taking it back.
6. Then, give them a treat as a reward.
7. Spend 5 minutes repeating steps 4 to 6.
8. Now, instead of taking the dish back after 3 seconds. Walk a few feet away from your pup. Cheerfully say the cue bring me your bowl/dish!
9. Reward them with a treat when they come to you while holding their dish.

Potential issues with this trick: Your dog will easily connect this trick with getting their meal. With that, they might surprise you by handing their dish. As theyre asking for food. When they do, simply ignore the behavior.

#83: Count

Suitable for: Best for puppies (< 1 year old) and adult dogs (1 to 6 years old). Dog must know how to bark on command (trick #21).

Description:

Renowned canine psychologist Stanley Coren said dogs are as smart as a 2-year-old. But unlike the average toddler, your pup can still learn how to count.

How to teach this trick to your dog:

1. Recount barking on command trick by saying the cue Speak!
2. Reward them with a treat when they bark.
3. Repeat the first 2 steps for 5 minutes.
4. Now that your dog is in the zone, change the cue to one!
5. Wait for them to bark once before rewarding them with a treat.
6. Keep practicing the drills so far.
7. To count up, change the cue to the corresponding number. Now, say two! and wait for them to bark twice.
8. Keep rewarding them when they count accordingly.

Potential issues with this trick: It helps to put a hand signal with the cue. Which is holding up a corresponding number of fingers. If you need them to bark once, then put up 1 finger. Otherwise, the association might be hard for some dogs.

#84: Jump on pedestal

Suitable for: Best for puppies (< 1 year old) and adult dogs (1 to 6 years old).

Description:

This isnt just an impressive trick. Its also a great agility exercise for Fido.

How to teach this trick to your dog:

1. Your dog must be standing in front of the pedestal.
2. Lure them to put their front paws on the pedestal using a treat in your hand. Also, say the cue jump!
3. When they step on it, reward them with the treat.
4. Continue practicing the first 3 steps for at least 5 minutes.
5. Now, lure them into hopping on the pedestal by using a treat. Repeat the cue.
6. Reward them when theyre standing entirely on the elevation.
7. Keep repeating the new drill for no less than 5 minutes.
8. After that, level up your lure by pulling your hand upward while you say the cue. The extra height will make Fido jump on the pedestal.
9. Give a treat as a reward when they jump.

Potential issues with this trick: The pedestal must not exceed half your dogs height. Otherwise, they might get injured trying to jump on it.

#85: Release command

Suitable for: All ages.

Description:

This is an important trick. Since it lets Fido know when theyre released from the stay command.

How to teach this trick to your dog:

1. Start by asking your pup to take a position. Whether thats sitting or lying down.
2. Say a cue like Break! to let them know theyre free to go. Also, use an encouraging tone. Even nodding your head can prompt them to get up. Moreover, you can move away to give them space.
3. Once theyre on their feet, reward them with a treat.
4. Keep repeating the steps above.

Potential issues with this trick: Once learned, you must always release your pup from a position. Because they might stay in a position while waiting for your command.

#86: Balance on head

Suitable for: Best for adult dogs (1 to 6 years old). They must also know the leave it! command (trick #4).

Description:

Teach your dog to control their impulses in the most amusing way.

How to teach this trick to your dog:

1. Start with an object that has a larger diameter, so its easier to balance. I suggest a dog frisbee.
2. Introduce the object to your pup by holding it near their face. However, dont get them excited over it. Instead, say, leave it!
3. You must reward them for not reacting to the object. So hand them a treat every time they leave it alone. At the same time, it also helps to mark the behavior with a clicker.
4. Repeat the steps above. While working the objects way up over your dogs head.
5. Once they dont mind holding the object near their face, briefly place it directly above their head. Dont leave it yet while you say the cue, steady!
6. If they stay still, reward them with a treat.
7. Keep practicing the drills above. Gradually practice taking your hand away from the object when you say the cue. And increase the time youll leave it on their head.

Potential issues with this trick: Dont put something on your pups head that can possibly injure them. Like a too-heavy or sharp object.

#87: Balance on nose

Suitable for: Best for adult dogs (1 to 6 years old). They must also know the leave it! command (trick #4).

Description:

Test your dogs patience and control with this trick. Which might be similar to the previous one, but a bit harder.

How to teach this trick to your dog:

1. Get them used to having something on their nose. But start by putting your hand on their nose first.
2. Reward them with a treat when they dont mind your hand touching their nose.
3. Next, hold a treat near their nose. But immediately tell them, leave it!
4. Now that theyre not interested in the treat, put it at the bridge of their nose (between their eyes).
5. Hold the treat there for at least 1 second. And say the cue, steady!
6. Repeat the steps above and continue rewarding. While you do, increase the duration of your hold. So they learn to be steady for a long time.
7. In the long run, lose the support. And let go of the treat on their nose. Always reward them when they successfully ignore the treat at a given time.

Potential issues with this trick: This only works for small objects. Moreover, this can be extra challenging for brachycephalic dog breeds. Or those with flat noses.

#88: Whisper

Suitable for: All ages.

Description:

Its cool to teach your dog to bark on command. But sometimes, they can be too loud. So why not train them to do it quietly?

How to teach this trick to your dog:

1. While Fido is in a sit position, hold a treat over their nose.
2. When dogs are about to bark, they give out a few signals. Most of the time, youll catch their eyes light up. Thats the moment you can softly say the cue, quiet!
3. The prompt must be immediately followed by a soft bark. If it is, reward them with a treat immediately. For faster reinforcement, you can mark it with a clicker too.
4. Keep repeating the steps above. And only reward the barks that arent loud (itll depend on your judgment).

Potential issues with this trick: Also recall bark on command training. Where they speak at their usual volume. So they can differentiate between the 2 commands.

#89: Sing

Suitable for: All ages.

Description:

This is perfect with trick #56 while Fido plays the piano. Or its great as a standalone trick that can impress your friends.

How to teach this trick to your dog:

1. Play a song or a tune that encourages your pup to vocalize.
2. Motivate them further by singing along with them.
3. To stop, simply halt your singing or turn off the music.
4. Then, reward them with a treat to reinforce the behavior.

Potential issues with this trick: They might start to vocalize to gain your attention. Or ask for food.

#90: Wipe paws

Suitable for: All ages.

Description:

So, your pup keeps playing around the yard. And you dont want to deal with their footprints that dirty your floors. Well, this special trick is for you.

How to teach this trick to your dog:

1. Introduce them to the mat they will use.
2. Encourage them to move to the mat by saying the cue, wipe your paws!
3. Reward them with a treat if they step into it. Also, if they walk around it.
4. Continue to practice the steps above. And move around so your pup understands you want the same behavior, no matter the position.
5. In the long run, you can move the mat next to the door. And every time they come in, you can ask them to wipe their paws using the cue.

Potential issues with this trick: Dont reward your canine when they scratch the mat. That can reinforce the act of scratching instead.

#91: Food refusal

Suitable for: All ages.

Description:

If you ask your pup to say no to food, you can save their life. Because youll have better control over what theyll put in their mouth.

How to teach this trick to your dog:

1. Show your pup some kind of food.

Important: Dont use the treat youre rewarding them with.

1. Once they get excited, say a cue. I would use yuck.
2. Right after the cue, pull the food away.
3. If they stop pursuing the food you showed them, you reward them with a treat.

Pro tip: Watch your dogs eyes closely. Theyre no longer interested in the food if they dont follow your hand that holds it. And thats when you deliver the reward.

Potential issues with this trick: It takes a lot of patience since dogs are crazy about food. At first, your pup will be extremely persistent with the food they think youre offering. But thatll only be at the start.

Read also: 13 Best Self-Control Games For Dogs

#92: Hide and seek

Suitable for: All ages. Best for dogs who know how to follow come and stay commands (#16 and #18). Your dog must also know their name (trick #2).

Description:

Play sessions are healthy for the human-dog bond. So, teach your pooch the classic game of hide and seek.

How to teach this trick to your dog:

1. Start by telling your dog sit! to position them.
2. Then, say stay! as you walk toward your hiding area. Which can be behind a table, the back of the couch, or a wall (another room).
3. Once positioned, call them using their name plus the cue. Itll go like: Fido, come!
4. Reward them with a treat when they find you.
5. Repeat the drills above. While gradually increasing the difficulty by hiding farther.

Potential issues with this trick: Prematurely coming out of your hiding spot can delay the training progress. So start easy with the hiding locations.

#93: Hide!

Suitable for: All ages.

Description:

Well, its not fair if Fido is always finding you. So, this time, your pup will be hiding from you.

How to teach this trick to your dog:

1. Put up a large object where your canine can hide behind or under.
2. Then, place it near your pup.
3. Now, visibly hold a treat in your hand. And throw it behind or under the object. At the same time, use the cue Hide!
4. Repeat the drills above. While gradually losing the treats and just relying on the cue.

Potential issues with this trick: Sometimes, hiding can mean only covering their face with an object. But whatevers enough for you, reward it. However, your dog might knock it over, which can result in harm, depending on the object. As well as delay the progress with training.

#94: Push-ups

Suitable for: Best for adult dogs (1 to 6 years old). Dog must know the tricks down and its release (#6 and #85, respectively). They must not have any history of bone diseases or current injuries.

Description:

Test your dogs agility and strengthen their muscles with this trick.

How to teach this trick to your dog:

1. Start with your dog standing up.
2. Quickly tell them, sit! then down! Next, release them by saying, break! which acts as the up command. Thats the complete succession of cues.
3. Reward them with a treat for completing 1 push-up (sit, down, and break).
4. After at least 10 minutes of that drill, add your main cue. It should go like sit, down, break, push-up!
5. Then, give them a prize for following your prompts.
6. Keep practicing the drills above. And slowly lose the 3 initial cues. Instead, use the main cue, push-up!

Potential issues with this trick: Some dogs will be slow to do push-ups. While others are like athletes. Regardless, be patient with their progress with this trick.

#95: Salute

Suitable for: All ages.

Description:

Teach your pup how to show their respect using the Salute! trick.

How to teach this trick to your dog:

1. Start them in the sit position.
2. Put tape on the right side of their face.
3. Theyre going to try to remove it quickly. Which theyll do by pawing near their face. Mark the behavior using a clicker.
4. Then, reward them with a treat immediately.
5. Every time they paw their face, mark, and reward. This reinforces the behavior.
6. Now, incorporate the cue salute! before they paw their face. And continue with the drill.
7. In the long run, eventually lose the tape and rely on verbal commands instead.

Potential issues with this trick: This is one of the hardest tricks on this list. So be patient when teaching it to your pup.

#96: Watch me

Suitable for: All ages. The dog must learn sit first (trick #3).

Description:

This is one of the best tricks to teach your canine how to concentrate. Moreover, this can help you increase their attention span. Since research reveals that, on average, canines can only hold a minute of attention.

How to teach this trick to your dog:

1. Ask your dog to sit down. Then, also sit beside them.
2. Take a treat and hold it over their nose.
3. Once theyre interested, quickly bring the treat from their nose to between your eyes.
4. Immediately say the command watch!
5. Your pooch needs to look at you before you can reward them with the same treat.

Important: Take and hand the treat in a straight line. Which is directly from your face to their mouth. While you do, keep looking at your pup.

1. Gradually increase the duration between the command and the reward. Regardless if your pup is starting to look at you immediately.

Potential issues with this trick: Your pup loses and holds attention inconsistently. Which is normal. When theyre getting distracted, decrease the interval between command and reward.

#97: Skip rope

Suitable for: Best for puppies (< 1 year old) and adult dogs (1 to 6 years old).

Description:

This is where play, training, and exercise meet. These are all beneficial for your dog.

How to teach this trick to your dog:

1. Teach your pup to jump in front of you. Say the cue up! And you should jump as well so Fido will easily follow your lead.
2. When they jump, mark the behavior with a clicker. Then, reward them with a treat.
3. Practice multiple jumps first. Encourage them to jump high.
4. Next, hold out the rope (dont move it yet) in front of your dog and prompt them to jump over it using only the cue. Hand them the treat as a reward when they hop up. Do this for at least 5 minutes.
5. Now, transition to the rope coming from behind the dog. Make them jump using the cue and slide the rope forward. Dont forget to reward. Practice this for another 5 minutes.
6. To put all of that together, tell your dog, up!
7. Then, swing the rope from their back to front. Reward them for each jump.

Potential issues with this trick: Careful with swinging the rope. Also, ensure that you properly time the cue so that Fido jumps on the dot. Otherwise, they might get injured.

#98: The play dead performance

Suitable for: All ages. They must know how to sit pretty, get down, and play dead (tricks #71, #6, and #21).

Description:

This isnt your usual play dead trick. Your dog will crawl and limp before they faintly drop to the ground. Its such a performance. Your pooch might even deserve an Oscar.

How to teach this trick to your dog:

1. Start with your pup sitting down.
2. With a treat in your hand, lure them into the sit pretty position. You can also use the cue to do so.
3. Dont reward them yet. Instead, lure them down by lowering the treat near the floor.
4. Reward them once theyre in the down position.
5. Repeat that drill first for about 5 minutes.
6. Then, add another trick, which is playing dead. Where they lie on their side.
7. Give them a reward when they follow your lure from sitting pretty, getting down, to playing dead.
8. Continue practicing the 3 tricks together.
9. Eventually add the main cue, which could be something like Boom! Youre dead. And the hand signal is the motion youve been doing when luring them from sitting to lying down.
10. Incorporate all those together and rely on both the cue and hand signals. Until your pup learns the whole routine.

Potential issues with this trick: Its really detailed to teach this trick. So be extra patient as you work on this performance with Fido. As it can take at least a month of daily training to perfect this.

#99: Pickpocket

Suitable for: All ages. Dog must know how to respond to the take it command (trick #17).

Description:

This trick lets you know how clever a canine can get. Because wholl expect that a pooch would steal something from you?

How to teach this trick to your dog:

1. Stand with your back to your dog. And hold a treat near your back pockets.
2. Encourage them to take the treat. When they do, mark it with a clicker.
3. Repeat that drill for at least 5 minutes.
4. Next, add something to your back pocket. And put a treat over it.
5. When Fido touches the object with their nose, use the clicker. And reward them.
6. Then, ask your dog to take it as you refer to the object.
7. Once they have it, mark the behavior. Then, take it from them and hand them their prize.
8. Now, add the cue Pickpocket! before your pup touches the object. Dont forget to reward them with a treat.
9. As you repeat, lose the treat dependence. Instead, rely on the verbal cue to prompt Fido to take the object from your pocket.

Potential issues with this trick: Its difficult to generalize this trick. So you might have to train with a different object during each training session.

#100: Wake up

Suitable for: All ages. Best learned as a puppy (< 1 year old), and those who know how to kiss (trick #36).

Description:

This trick is widely used on dog aids who need to wake up their deaf dog parent. As well as fur parents who have trouble getting up from bed.

How to teach this trick to your dog:

1. Play the alarm first. And reward your pup with a treat when they react toward the sound (ex., head tilt or bark). Do this for about 3 minutes.
2. Next, add smooch sounds or the cue, kiss! to encourage them to lick your face. Reward them when they do.
3. Keep repeating step 2. But gradually decrease the use of the cue. Since the alarm should be your canines prompt. Also, reward them alternatively with treats and praises.
4. As you repeat, you can start putting a little distance between you and Fido. So that in reality, theyll learn how to respond to the sound. Then, come and kiss you to wake you up.

Potential issues with this trick: At first, this doesnt sound complicated. But upon training, youll learn how challenging it is to reinforce it. So ensure to prepare a lot of patience on your side. Since your pup doesnt know the nature of the alarm sound and its purpose.

#101: Close the curtains

Suitable for: All ages. Best for dogs who know how to play tug-of-war (trick #64).

Description:

This trick can come in handy in different situations. Say the light from your window is too bright. But youre already relaxed on the couch. Then, have Fido draw the curtains for you.

How to teach this trick to your dog:

1. Get Fido interested with one end of the curtain. You can tickle them in the face. Or hold it near their mouth.
2. Then, once theyre mouthing the fabric, tug it from them gently. Doing so encourages them to pull the fabric from you.
3. Reward that pulling behavior.
4. Repeat the steps above at least 5 times.
5. Next, tug the fabric from them. But once they pull, let go of the fabric to draw the curtain. This is where you say, close the curtain! to add a cue to the trick.
6. Use a treat and praises as rewards when they take a few steps back as they pull.
7. Next, instead of tugging, point to the fabric. And use the cue to prompt Fido to pull.
8. Encourage them to close it all the way by cheering.

Potential issues with this trick: Step #8 might take a while to achieve. But its not impossible. Moreover, dont reward them when they pull the curtain too hard and knock over the rod. Doing so might reinforce the wrong behavior.