5 Essential Tricks to Teach Your Dog (And Why They Matter!)
Teaching your pup new tricks isn’t just about showing off at the dog park—it’s a great way to strengthen your bond, keep their mind sharp, and improve obedience. Whether you have a brand-new puppy or an older dog eager to learn, these five tricks are fun, functional, and will make everyday life easier for both of you!
1. Sit – The Foundation of Good Behavior
The “sit” command is one of the easiest tricks to teach and serves as the foundation for more advanced training. It helps your dog stay calm in exciting situations, whether you're greeting guests or waiting at the vet.
How to Teach It:
- Hold a treat close to your dog’s nose.
- Slowly move your hand up, causing their head to follow and their bottom to lower.
- Once they sit, say “sit” and reward them with the treat and praise.
2. Stay – A Must-Know for Safety
Imagine your dog bolting toward a busy street—this is where “stay” becomes a lifesaver. It helps keep your dog still until you give them permission to move.
How to Teach It:
- Ask your dog to sit.
- Hold up your hand like a stop sign and say “stay.”
- Take a step back. If they remain in place, reward them.
- Gradually increase distance and duration over time.
3. Come – The Recall Command You’ll Rely On
Having a reliable recall command can prevent dangerous situations, like your dog running off during a walk.
How to Teach It:
- Start indoors in a distraction-free space.
- Crouch down and enthusiastically say, “Come!” while opening your arms.
- Reward your pup every time they come to you.
- Practice in different environments to reinforce the command.
4. Leave It – Keeping Your Pup Out of Trouble
Dogs are naturally curious, which sometimes means sniffing out things they shouldn’t—like dropped food or unsafe objects. “Leave it” teaches them self-control.
How to Teach It:
- Place a treat in your hand and close your fist.
- Let your dog sniff, lick, or paw at your hand.
- When they stop, say “leave it,” then reward them with a different treat.
- Progress to placing the treat on the ground and covering it with your hand.
5. Shake – A Fun Trick That Impresses Everyone
This one isn’t just adorable—it also helps dogs become comfortable with having their paws handled (great for vet visits and nail trims!).
How to Teach It:
- Ask your dog to sit.
- Hold out your hand and say “shake.”
- Gently lift their paw and reward them.
- With repetition, they’ll start offering their paw on their own!
Ready to Train? We Can Help!
At Pooch Playhouse, we love helping dogs (and their owners) build confidence through training and enrichment. Whether you’re working on basic obedience or fun tricks, our experienced staff is here to support you every step of the way.
Want to learn more? Contact us today or stop by for a visit!
