JUPITER, FL - JUNE 30: Dogs are walked in The Village of Abacoa condominium complex (Image credit: Getty Images via @daylife)
It’s never too late to teach an old (or young) dog new tricks, and with a little practice he will soon be the star of the show. The things you teach your dog are only limited to your imagination, but we’ve outlined some basics for you.
Initially you will train your dog with a treat, and 10 minutes each training session should be all you need.
Shake Hands
Basic: Start by having your dog sit. Say, ‘shake hands’ and gently lift his paw with your hand. Hold his paw and say, ‘good dog!’ or give him a treat. Let go of his paw. Do this a few times every day.
Advanced: After a while, say, ‘shake hands’ but don’t take his paw. See if he raises his paw by himself. If not, keep showing him what to do by saying, ‘shake hands’ and taking his paw with your hand. Your dog is not slow; he is just learning!
Turn Around
Basic: Start by having your dog walk beside you. Let your dog see a treat in your hand. As you are walking say, ‘turn around’. Lead the dog’s nose around with the treat so he walks in a circle. When he comes back beside you again, praise him and give him the treat.
Advanced: After some practice, hold the treat so your dog can see it and say, ‘turn around’, but don’t lead his nose. See if he is ready to turn around by himself and get the treat. Then you can try the same on the other side.
Beg
Basic: Have your dog sit, facing you. Hold his favourite treat just above his head and tell him, ‘say please’. Your dog will probably lift his front feet off the ground to reach the treat. As soon as the feet are lifted, even a little bit, give him the treat.
Advanced: This is a hard trick for most dogs. Wait a little longer each time before giving the treat, but be careful not to let your dog fall over on his back. You are helping your dog develop his balance.
Roll Over
Basic: Start by having your dog lie down on his belly. You can stand or kneel beside him. Using a treat, hold it by his nose, and then move it around and behind him, so that he lies on his side and then rolls over. Give him the treat and tell him what a great dog he is!
Tip: Only roll your dog on soft surfaces like carpet or grass so he doesn’t hurt his back.
ABOUT THE GUEST BLOG POST AUTHOR
Jane Keighley is Director of Jake Public Relations and has been PR Consultant to Aussie Pooch Mobile for the past five years.
Aussie Pooch Mobile is a franchised mobile hydrobathing service for the family dog that has been operating since 1991. The Aussie Pooch Mobile currently services approximately 20,000 customers everymonth throughout Australia. The company also services customers in New Zealand, The USA, New Caledonia, The United Kingdom, and Malaysia under the name of The Pooch Mobile. Find out more about their services at www.aussiepm.com.au
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