Looking for a fun way to bond with your furry friend while engaging their brain and body? Teaching tricks isn’t just about showing off, it's a great way to build trust, improve communication, and enjoy quality time together. Many people don’t realize that even basic obedience cues like “sit” and “down” are tricks in a dog’s eyes. The real difference is in our attitude. Sometimes we take obedience too seriously and forget to have fun.
That’s why teaching tricks can be so rewarding. It reminds us that training should be enjoyable for both of you. So grab some treats, bring your patience, and try these easy dog tricks for beginners. Don’t worry about perfection, it's all about the journey and having fun.
One of the most popular and adorable tricks is the shake. Here’s how to teach it using two effective methods:
Start with a treat in your hand and let your dog sniff it.
Slowly move your hand to the side so your pup shifts weight, lifting a paw.
The moment their paw lifts, mark with a “yes” or click, and give the treat. Repeat until they offer the paw consistently.
Now, present your treat hand and, when the paw lifts, catch it with your opposite hand (palm up). Mark and treat.
Gradually move your hand higher so your pup actively reaches your hand.
Once consistent, say “shake” as you offer your hand. When they place their paw, mark and treat from your other hand.
Perfect for dogs who don’t paw much or ignore hand treats:
With your dog sitting, gently tap the back of their leg.
When they lift their paw, mark and treat. Repeat until the lift becomes more intentional.
Present your palm at elbow height. When the paw meets your hand, mark and treat.
Add the verbal cue “shake” when offering your hand. Reinforce when the paw touches.
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“Spin” (clockwise) and “Twirl” (counterclockwise) are high-energy tricks that dogs love.
Hold a treat at your dog’s nose and guide them in a circle.
When they complete the turn, mark and treat. Repeat 5 times.
Practice the motion with an empty hand, still rewarding at the end.
Shrink the hand signal over time, eventually a flick of the wrist should cue the turn.
Add verbal cues: “spin” or “twirl” before the hand signal.
Teaching a dog to “bow” looks playful but also stretches their body, great for warm-ups.
Have your dog stand. Use a treat to lure their nose slightly downward and back.
As soon as their elbows touch the ground, mark and reward. Avoid luring them into a full down.
Add the cue “bow” once the motion becomes predictable.
“Roll over” is a classic crowd-pleaser and works your dog’s flexibility.
Start with your dog lying down. Lure their nose toward their shoulder to tip them sideways.
Slowly guide the treat past their back—reward any movement toward rolling.
Keep going until they roll completely.
Repeat with an empty hand, then introduce the cue “roll over.”
This trick turns you into an obstacle course!
Stand with your dog on your left. Step forward with your right foot and lure them under.
Step with the left foot and do the same. Mark and reward after each pass.
Continue until they move fluidly between your legs. Add the cue “weave” if desired.
The “middle” position (between your legs) is both fun and comforting for dogs.
Start with your dog in front. Toss a treat behind you and guide them through your legs to retrieve it.
Lure again, this time feed them under your legs as they pass through.
Practice until they move confidently into the position. Add the cue “middle” when consistent.
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Whether you're just starting or looking to add to your dog’s skillset, these are fun tricks to teach your dog that also serve as easy dog tricks for beginners. Remember, it’s not about getting it perfect, it's about building a stronger relationship with your dog. So grab some treats, get down on their level, and start training!
Have fun and let the tail wags be your reward!
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