Things You'll Need:
- Small dog treats
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Step 1
SIT. The first trick you should try to teach your dog is "sit". This is the easiest trick and once your dog has mastered it, it will help him learn the next tricks.
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Step 2
The first thing you should do is to take your dog to a place or a room where there are no distractions. Any other people or dogs around will take his attention away from you.
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Step 3
Once you have your dog in a calm place, show him a treat. This will get your dog's attention. Give him the command "sit" and then take the treat close to his nose and start moving it back over his head. Your dog will try to get the treat from you by moving back and he will inevitably end up sitting.
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Step 4
If your dog doesn't sit immediately, push on his behind lightly to direct him. Do not push harshly or force him to sit as this will only cause defiance from him. Try moving the treat from his face and over his head a few times until he sits. Remember to say "sit" every time so your dog can associate the word with the action.
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Step 5
Once your dog sits down, instantly give him praise to show him he did good and let him eat the treat.
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Step 6
LAY DOWN. Next, you will teach your dog to "lay down". Once your dog has learned to "sit" this next trick will come much easier. Make your dog sit and reward him for it with a treat.
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Step 7
While your dog is sitting, say the command "lay down". Then take another treat and bring it close to his chest and move it down between his front paws. Then slowly move the treat away from him at floor level. This will lure you dog down towards the ground and moving the treat away from him will help him get in the "lay down" position. This might take a few tries, but every time he gets into the right position, give him praise and reward him with a treat!
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Step 8
If your dog is taking a while to understand the "lay down" command, help him by pulling his front legs gently towards you while you say the command. Do not force your dog, just guide him. Once he is in the proper position, praise and reward him.
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Step 9
PLAY DEAD. Once your dog learns how to "lay down" you can teach him how to "play dead". While he is laying down, say the command "play dead" and push him gently on his side. Hold him in that position for a couple of seconds and then give him praise and a treat.
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Step 10
The key to teaching a dog a trick is repetition, so repeat this action a few times before you try to have him do it himself without you pushing him. Remember to say the command over and over again every time you do the trick so he can associate it.
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Step 11
And that's it! Keep practicing and your dog will learn every trick!
