How to Teach a Dog to Crawl

Many dog owners enjoy teaching their dogs to perform tricks. Most have taught their dogs the basic commands, such as "sit" and "lie down." However, if you're looking for something more advanced, teach your dog to crawl. Just follow these simple steps.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

1. Make sure your dog knows the "lie down" and "stay" commands before you teach him to crawl.

2. Get your dog into the down position and tell him to stay.

3. Grab a treat and hold it about a foot in front of his nose. Do not let him get up from the down position or move forward to grab the treat.

4. Tell your dog to "crawl" as you slowly move the treat away from him.

5. Use your other hand to gently prevent your dog from standing up and walking towards the treat. The idea is to keep him low to the ground so he crawls or inches forward until he gets to the treat. Do not push down on your dog. Instead, lightly hover your hand above his back in case he tries to get up.

6. Reward your dog with the treat and a happy "Good crawl!" whenever he performs the trick correctly. He should not receive the treat or any verbal praise if he doesn't perform the trick.

7. Keep practicing. Eventually your dog will understand what you want him to do and you can remove your guide hand from above his back.

Tips & Warnings

• Don't push your dog too hard, too fast. He needs time to learn new things, just like you do. Be patient and he'll be crawling in no time.

Resources

• Visit dogplay.com for more tricks and activities you can do with your dog.
• Perfectpaws.com has additional information about dog training.