Dog Training

5 Uncomplicated Things That You Can Teach Your Dog

Teaching your dog can be an excellent way of spending time and having fun with him/her, and I assure you it doesn’t have to be very tiresome!. If you are a new owner of a puppy or a dog for years, I’m sure it is possible to teach your dog some easy tricks. It’s not required to be skilled or have expensive gear—only time and tasty goodies and enthusiasm. Here are five simple stunts that will be sure to have your dog wagging their tail with pride without so much of a blink of an eye!

Dog Training
1. Sit

Let’s start with the classic: “sit.” To me, it remains one of the easiest tricks and perhaps one that owners introduce to their dogs first. Also, it comes in very handy when you need the dog to sit, stand or even stop moving around, perhaps when being bathed.

How to Teach It:
  • Take a pack of something sweet and healthy — a small snack which your dog enjoys.
  • Bring a treat towards your dog's nose, so your dog can sniff it but not attempt to grab it.
  • Then, slowly lift the treat above the dog's head. It will be natural for him or her to raise the nose up and bring the bum to the ground.
  • The moment their butt touches the ground, say “sit” and then offer them a treat. Remember to use a cheerful tone and add phrases like “Good boy” or “Good girl.”
  • Repeat a few times, and soon, your dog will be sitting every time you command “sit.”
Pro Tip:

After your dog has learned to sit, try using the command in real-life scenarios. Before meals, ask them to sit; before a walk, ask them to sit. It’s a good way to practice and reinforce the behavior.

2. Shake Paw

This one is a crowd-pleaser. The guests will be most pleased when your dog comes to them and shakes hands. Plus, it’s an adorable way to diversify dog training.

How to Teach It:
  • Start by having your dog sit down and remain seated. It’s easier to teach when they’re calm and still.
  • Put a treat in your hand and let them sniff it.
  • Take one of their front paws, say “shake,” and reward them with the treat.
  • Repeat this, and soon your dog will start offering their paw on their own.
  • As soon as they lift their paw without your help, praise them immediately!
Pro Tip:

You can mix it up by teaching “high five” after they’ve learned “shake paw.” Just raise your hand a bit higher, and they’ll be hitting it in no time!

3. Lie Down

This is another convenient command, especially when the dog needs to calm down. It’s also useful as a stepping stone for more advanced tricks.

How to Teach It:
  • Start with the “sit” command.
  • Slowly move the treat down to the dog's eye level, drawing a line away from them.
  • As they follow the treat, their body will naturally move into the “lie down” position.
  • When their belly touches the floor, say “lie down” and give them the treat.
Pro Tip:

Practice makes perfect! Keep at it, and soon your dog will lie down on command.

4. Spin

Spin is a fun trick that gets your dog moving! It’s a great way to give them some exercise while showing off their skills.

How to Teach It:
  • Get your dog’s attention with a treat.
  • Hold the treat near their nose and slowly guide them in a circle.
  • When they complete the circle, say “spin” and reward them.
Pro Tip:

Once they’ve mastered spinning in one direction, teach them to twirl the other way for even more fun!

5. Stay

“Stay” is useful for keeping your dog still in distracting situations, like when someone rings the doorbell or you’re trying to take a picture.

How to Teach It:
  • Have your dog sit or lie down.
  • Hold your palm out and say “stay.”
  • Take a step back. If they stay in place, reward them immediately and say “good stay.”
  • Gradually increase the distance and time before giving the treat.
Pro Tip:

If your dog gets up before you release them, don’t scold them. Calmly return them to the spot and try again. Keep sessions short and positive.

Wrapping It Up

Dog training is a fun process, and teaching these five simple tricks will impress your friends and strengthen your bond with your furry friend. Every dog learns at their own pace, so be patient and celebrate every success. Happy training!