How to Train a Papillon to Dance

The papillon is the eighth smartest dog breed, and they love performing tricks for their owners--especially tricks they innately know how to do! Chances are, your papillon already loves to dance. Learn how to reinforce that behavior with positive training while bonding with your best friend.

Things You'll Need

• Training treats

Instructions

1. Clear a space on the floor and have the bag of training treats handy. Have your papillon sit and stay in front of you.

2. Place the treat slightly above your papillon's nose. If your dog starts to go for it, raise the treat a little out of his reach. Continue to goad your papillon into a standing position. Immediately say "Dance!" in a happy voice and give your dog the treat.

3. Repeat the steps at least seven to 10 times daily. (Papillons usually only take 1 to 2 days to fully learn a task.) Continue until your papillon confidently stands up for the treat each time. Then up the ante by placing the treat in the air and saying "Dance!"

4. Add a hand motion by wiggling your fingers as you say "Dance!", and your papillon will soon be dancing without the voice command. It's important to give the treat each time your dog successfully performs the trick.

Tips & Warnings

• This training works well for food-motivated papillons. If your dog isn't food-motivated, substitute a favorite toy. Consistency is key when training your papillon. Set your dog up for success by doing your voice commands and hand motions the same way each time.

• Never reprimand or hit your dog if she doesn't catch on quickly. Keep your tone positive and upbeat; remember, this should be as much fun for you as it is for your papillon!