Dogs are amazing creatures that can learn all sorts of commands. Performing tricks is fun for our furry friends, but also helps to keep them mentally and physically active. From simple tricks like sit and stay to more complex tricks like playing dead or even riding a skateboard, your dog will have a blast learning new tricks.
Continue on for a look at 7 fun tricks to try with your dog today.
Begging
Teaching your dog to beg is a great way to bond and keep them interested in learning new things. By holding a treat in your hand and steadily lifting it above your pet's nose, command them to stand on their hind legs. With some patience and practice, you'll have your pup begging for treats on two legs.
Playing Dead
This is a fun trick often used in obedience classes, but it's also entertaining for others. Ask your dog to lay down and kneel in front of him with a treat. Hold the treat at the side of her head and move it toward his shoulder. Once he falls to his side, give him the treat and say, "Play Dead."
Speak
Teaching your dog to speak is one of the most popular and rewarding tricks in the book. Positive reinforcement techniques such as treats or praise can help them learn this trick quickly. Learning to speak on command also helps with dogs who are just a little too yappy.
Practice Makes Perfect
Playing piano isn't easy, so watching our four-legged musicians work their magic on the keys is a sight! Tricks like these make our pets appear more humanlike, and who can blame us for thinking so? With enough practice, some dogs can even learn to howl along to music.
Shake Paws
Most dogs can learn this simple trick in a few quick training sessions. The positive attention most dogs love receiving while doing tricks will encourage them to use their paws more often.
Skateboarding!
Skateboarding is an extreme sport, but compact dog breeds like pugs and bulldogs are perfect for learning this nifty trick. The first step is to get the dog comfortable riding a moving skateboard. As they improve, you gradually increase the speed and distance.
Commando Crawl
Some pups naturally start to crawl, while others require more encouragement. Instruct them to lay down first, then place a treat between your fingers so that he can smell it but not grab it. Drag the treat slowly over the floor while urging him to maintain a bowed head. With enough practice, they'll be all ready for boot camp!