Choosing Proper Tricks

Teaching a dog a tick can be a rewarding experience for both pet and owner. It provides an opportunity for positive interaction between the dog and his trainer, which is always desirable. Additionally, it creates future opportunities for the dog to engage in approved behavior while also providing both parties a feeling of satisfaction.

Thousands of tricks have been taught to dogs ranging from the common (“roll over”) to the entirely unique. Certainly thousands of new tricks are being conceived and taught to dogs with each passing day. Despite the diversity of tricks, all share some common traits. Chief among these commonalities is the framework in which successful trick training occurs.

All successful trick teachers do some things in common. They understand the necessary foundations for successful trick instruction and are mindful to the “tricks” they must know before they even begin to work with their dog. That’s right, teaching a dog a trick requires knowing a few of your own! There are three “tricks” the owner must learn before teaching a dog a trick. These three “tricks” are choosing proper tricks, choosing proper rewards, and remaining positive throughout the teaching process.

When selecting a trick to teach a dog, one is far more likely to have a successful and rewarding experience if they choose a trick for which the animal is well suited. A dog who hates to rear up on his hind legs, for instance, is a poor candidate for any “learning to walk” trick. Meanwhile, a dog who seemingly loves to bring things to people is an excellent candidate for a trick based on “fetching.”

Tricks should be chosen with the dog and his predilections in mind. Trying to teach a trick that runs contrary to a dog’s personal nature increases frustration and difficulty and makes the process less valuable for both parties. Thus it is incumbent upon the owner to choose tricks that are consistent with the dog’s personality, preferences and skills.