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Step 1
Your dog should already know how to sit, lie down and roll over on command. To turn this into the more showy Stop, Drop and Roll, you will need to have treats and patience. First give the dog the command to "Sit" and motion with your hand to go down. Praise and give the dog treats. Repeat, but change the word to "Stop," using the same tone and the same hand gesture. After a few times, most dogs will adjust to the change in the word.
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Step 2
Once the dog has learned, "Stop," from the sitting position, ask your dog to "Lie Down" or whatever command you use to get your dog to go down. Again make sure to use a downward motion with your hand, but this time all the way to the floor. Change the word in your command to "Drop" instead of down, again using the same tone and motions until the dog understands the command. Always praise generously and reward the dog with treats. Also give the dog several mental breaks.
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Step 3
After your dog has mastered these two moves, do the same with "Rollover," motioning with a twisting motion of your hand to roll over. Change the command to "Roll," using the same twisting motion. Praise and give the dog treats.
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Step 4
Once the dog has learned the new commands, combine them. Be patient. From a standing position, tell him "Stop," motioning for him to sit. Once the dog does it, give him the treat and praise him generously. Next motion to the floor and say, "Drop." Be prepared for your dog to get confused at times as he will be eager for treats, but be patient. Repeat, "Stop" and "Drop," commands closer and closer together, until the dog can do them on command but in almost one fluid movement.
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Step 5
The last step is to add the "Roll," as the dog is lying down. Make sure to use your hand motion for the roll. The dog will again be eager to please and may get confused at first. Just be patient. Eventually, he or she will string the three commands and hand motions together in his mind and perform them as one trick. Don't forget to praise the dog and give him plenty of mental breaks.
