Paw may be a fun and easy trick to teach your pup, but it can be an annoying "trick" in the long run. Does your pup paw at you to get your attention? Do they scratch up your arms and legs because they're constantly trying to give you their paw? When dogs want something, they very often default to an easy command as their way of "asking" for a treat. We've found that when you teach your dog "paw" or "high five" or whatever you want to call it, that is then their go-to "trick" to earn a reward. (Whether that be a treat, affection, or just your attention.) Like I said, that "trick" can turn into quite a disaster, so here are a few alternative tricks that you can teach your pup that are quite simple and will save you (and especially your guests!) from getting scratched up.
Teaching "Spin"
1. Get Their Attention: Start by holding a treat in front of your dog's nose. Make sure you have their full attention.
2. Lure with a Treat: Slowly move the treat in a circular motion around your dog. As their head follows the treat, their body will naturally follow.
3. Add the Command: As they complete the circle, say the word "spin" and give them the treat.
4. Repeat and Reinforce: Practice this several times in short sessions. Gradually, your dog will associate the word "spin" with the action.
5. Fade the Lure: Once your dog understands the command, try using a hand gesture without the treat to prompt the spin.
Teaching the *Bang* Trick (Playing Dead)
1. Start with Basic Commands: Make sure your dog is comfortable with "down" and "stay" commands.
2. Lure into Position: With your dog lying down, hold a treat close to their nose, then move it slowly towards their shoulder to encourage them to roll onto their side.
3. Add the Command: As your dog rolls onto their side, say the word "bang" and give them the treat.
4. Use a Gesture: Some people like to use a finger gun gesture to accompany the "bang" command.
5. Practice and Reward: Repeat this process, rewarding your dog each time they follow through. Gradually, they will associate the "bang" command and gesture with playing dead.
Teaching the "Center" Command
1. Positioning: Start with your dog standing in front of you. Hold a treat in both hands. With one hand, guide your dog around behind you.
2. Lure Between Legs: With the other hand, reach between your legs to get your dog focused on that treat, then bring your hand back through your legs. Your dog should follow the treat and end up standing or sitting between your legs.
3. Add the Command: As they move into position, say the word "center" and reward them with the treat.
4. Consistency: Practice this several times, making sure to always reward your dog when they correctly follow the command.
5. Build Duration: Once your dog is comfortable with the position, practice having them stay there for longer periods before giving the treat.
Teaching your dog these alternative tricks can be just as fun and rewarding as teaching "paw" but without the potential for annoying or even painful consequences. Remember to keep training sessions short and positive, and always reward your dog for their successes.
If you’re having trouble swapping out “paw” for some of these new tricks or just want a little extra help with training, we’ve got your back! Every dog is different, and sometimes a bit of guidance makes all the difference. Reach out anytime – we’d love to help you and your pup find fun, positive ways to train together.
Happy training!
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