Tricks

Basic Tricks

When you are training tricks remember that you can use whatever command that you like, as long as you are consistent. 
Dont worry if your dog is struggling with one particular trick, as some dogs are more natural with certain tricks, not so good with other ones. 
Also remember to keep your dogs health in mind. Large breed dogs (Great Danes etc.) should not be doing tricks such as roll over because it puts them at risk of a twisted bowl. Dogs with back injuries should not do any dancing on hind legs, and leg injury dogs shouldn't do jumping tricks.




Clicker Training

Clicker training is a great way to train tricks, as the dogs understand very quickly what a 'click' means, and you are able to be very precise with the timing of the marking of desired behavior.

To 'charge up' a dog and teach them what a click means throw a huge handful of treats on the ground, and click every time they hoover a treat. Then ask for a simple behaviour that you know they know, like a sit. As their but hits the ground, click and reward.

Keep in mind
 - you need to be very precise with your click, or you will create unclear behaviour
 - be very clear on your criteria - what are you willing to accept for a click
 - Try not to ask repeatedly for a behaviour. Be patient, ask once and wait.

  1. Touch
  2. Spins and Twists
  3. Leg weaving
  4. Trotting
  5. Jumping
  6. Bow
  7. Paw work
  8. Roll over
  9. 'Dance' on hind legs

Agility specific tricks
  • Spin / twist
  • Target
  • Front feet on a target
  • Back feet on a target
  • Rotating around a target with feet on
  • Weaving
  • Waving
  • Bow
  • Back up 
  • Say your prayers

More Advanced Tricks

  1. In Front
  2. Stare back
  3. Back around
  4. Advanced leg weaving
  5. Advanced Paw work
  6. Backing up at distance

Videos






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