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Step 1
Get a hoop. Have your dog stand still on all four paws. Then lift the back up slightly to put the hoop underneath their belly. Lift up with the hoop in order to make the dog's back legs go up. Some dogs such as poodles and chihuahas will automatically go into a handstand and then remove the hoop.
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Step 2
Choose a word to use as a command. For instance, when pulling up their back legs with the hoop use the word "up." The dog will get used to hearing the word "up" and eventually you will not have to use the hoop in order to bring their back legs up. After a while the dog will hear the command and automatically go into their handstand.
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Step 3
Reward your dog. Give the dog treats of something they really like. Treats will be the dog's reward and will encourage them to do the trick again. When giving the treat to your dog be sure to also give reassuring words and tell them what a good boy or girl they are. Pet and hug them to encourage them even more to do the handstand for you upon your command.
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Step 4
Be consistent. Do not have your dog learn to do a handstand a lot one day and then skip several days before doing it again. Make sure to do it every day for a few minutes to remind him of the trick. They will start to enjoy the time you spend with them and making you happy.
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Step 5
Use your judgment. If your dog seems too tired or not too eager to do the trick then play a game of catch or fetch with the dog to get them excited. Take them for a walk and maybe that will get them in the mood to start doing tricks, especially the handstand. If they seem sick or really tired that they don't even want to go for a walk choose another time of the day to have your dog do the trick. Getting them in the right mood will increase the chances of your dog doing the handstand.
