How to Teach Simple Dog Tricks
The old adage goes that you can't teach an old dog new tricks. That might be the case for some stubborn canines but with persistent commands and practice a good dog can learn at any age. Most dogs are not only eager to learn but they are also eager to please their "masters." The strongest asset you can have in training your dog is patience. You pooch won't become Lassie overnight but with firm guidance and consistency they can learn what you teach them.
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Instructions
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Determine the commands you will use in training your dog. They should be both verbal and physical. Verbal commands should be simple words like "sit, stay, come, or down." Gestures should mimic the action you want the dog to follow such as sweeping your hand towards the ground for the down command.
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Use bite size treats to reward your dog. Because dogs react positively to food, rewarding them for good behavior with a bite size treat will help them learn tricks quickly. Once they have consistently responded to your commands, you can wean them off of the treats so that they are ultimately obeying you without a reward.
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Repeat the command lesson often during a training session. A dog learns through repetition. This doesn't mean repeating the command until they perform the trick. Speak the command and use the gesture once. If the dog doesn't follow then give them a gentle correction into the position you want using the leash and collar or by physically guiding them.
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Set aside time for a training session every day. The more you work your dog the quicker they will learn what is expected of them.
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Utilize a pet clicker. Familiarize the dog with the sound of the clicker then use it following the command. Clickers work best in conjunction with food treats.
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Tips & Warnings
After your training session spend some time playing with your dog. This will be their additional reward for a good work-out and will help reinforce their learning. Follow up every good performance with postive reinforcement.
