Teach Your Dog 7 Useful (and Fun!) Tricks

Teaching your dog tricks isn’t just about showing off — it’s a great way to strengthen your bond, build their confidence, and provide mental stimulation. Below are six practical and entertaining tricks you can start teaching your pup today using just a few treats, some patience, and lots of love

🐾 1. Sit – The Foundation of Obedience

"Sit" may seem basic, but it's one of the most important commands your dog can learn. It encourages calm behavior and sets the foundation for future training.

How to teach it:

1. Grab some high-value treats (chicken, sausage, or cheese work great).

2. Hold the treat close to your dog’s nose, then slowly move your hand upward and slightly back over their head.

3. As they look up, they’ll naturally lower into a seated position.

4. The moment they sit, say “SIT!” and reward them with the treat and praise.

💡 Pro tip: Practice in short sessions and always use the same command word for consistency.

🌀 2. Spin in Circles (Spin/Twist)

This is a super fun trick that helps your dog develop better body coordination.

How to teach it:

1. Start with your dog standing.

2. Use a treat to guide your dog in a circle, moving your hand slowly around them.

3. As they complete the circle, say “SPIN!” (or “TWIST!” for the opposite direction), mark the behavior with a cheerful “YES!” and give the reward.

✨ Bonus: Dogs love this one, and it’s great to add flair to their trick repertoire!

🐶 3. Paws Up (Front Paws on an Object)

A cute and confidence-boosting trick — perfect for photos and for building body control.

How to teach it:

1. Choose a sturdy, safe object (like a low box or step).

2. Use a treat to guide your dog’s front paws onto the object.

3. As soon as their paws are up, say “PAWS UP!”, mark it with “YES!” and reward them.

📸 Tip: Snap a photo once they’ve mastered it — you’ll have the perfect Instagram moment! Don’t forget to tag us in @soho_poms — we’d love to see your pup in action and share it in our stories!

 

👃 4. Nose Touch to Hand (Touch/Nose)

A useful and fun trick that can be used for redirection, recall, or even just play.

How to teach it:

1. Show your dog your open palm, with a treat hidden between your fingers.

2. Say “TOUCH!” or “NOSE!” as they come closer.

3. When they touch your hand with their nose, say “YES!” and give the treat.

4. Repeat a few times. Eventually, you can phase out the treat and keep it in your pocket instead.

 

🔄 5. “Drop It” / “Give” – Learning to Let Go with Trust

Teaching your dog to release objects on command is not just useful — it’s essential for their safety and your peace of mind. Whether it’s something they picked up on a walk or a toy they’re not ready to let go of, knowing how to “drop it” calmly can prevent stress, accidents, and unwanted tug-of-war games.

Step-by-step how to teach it:

1. Start with a toy your dog enjoys — but not their absolute favorite at first.

2. Let them play with it for a few seconds.

3. Then, show them a high-value treat (something irresistible).

4. Calmly say “DROP IT” or “SWAP” as you offer the treat.

5. As soon as they release the toy, mark the behavior with a cheerful “YES!” and give them the reward.

6. Repeat regularly, keeping the mood relaxed and rewarding.

💡 Helpful Tips:

• Avoid pulling the item out of their mouth — that can cause possessiveness or resistance.

• If they don’t let go right away, don’t force it. Simply pause, give them a moment, and try again with an even tastier treat.

• Practice with different objects and in different settings to help your dog generalize the command.

🎯 Bonus Benefit: This trick is especially helpful on walks when your dog picks up something unsafe, or when you want to calmly end a play session.

 

🧘6. Teach Your Dog the “Settle” Trick (on a Mat or Bed)

The “Settle” cue is perfect for helping your dog stay calm and relaxed in one place — whether it’s on a mat, a dog bed, or a towel. It’s especially useful when guests arrive or during busy moments at home.

🐾 Step-by-step:

1. Create a positive association.
   Start by standing near the mat with your dog. Place a treat directly on the mat to encourage them to explore it. Repeat this several times so they start to understand the mat is a rewarding, calm space.

2. Encourage a down.
   Once your dog is willingly going to the mat, use your verbal cue (like “settle” or “go to bed”) and encourage them to lie down. You can guide them with a treat if needed.

3. Add distance.
   Gradually take a step or two away after you cue them to the mat. If they stay, return to them and reward directly on the mat. This reinforces that staying on the mat = good things happen.

4. Increase duration.
   Slowly increase the amount of time your dog stays on the mat before you reward. Keep sessions short and positive to avoid frustration.

5. Practice with distractions.
   Once your dog can stay calmly on the mat, add real-life distractions: people walking by, guests entering, or light household noises. Always reward when your dog chooses to remain settled.

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💡 Pro Tip:

Keep a special chew or long-lasting treat nearby to give your dog when they settle — this helps them stay calm for longer periods and makes the mat their favorite spot.

 

🔔 7. Ring the Bell to Go Outside

A very useful trick that gives your dog a polite way to tell you they need to go out.

How to teach it:

1. Start with a handheld bell and some treats.

2. Ask for a “PAW” (or use the nose if preferred) while holding the bell in your hand.

3. When they touch the bell, say “YES!” and reward.

4. Once they understand the action, hang the bell near the door.

5. Now, ask for “TOUCH THE BELL!” before letting them outside.