Introduction
Looking for fun and easy dog training tricks to bond with your pup and show off their smarts? You don’t need to be a professional trainer to teach your dog some impressive moves. With just a little time, consistency, and a handful of treats, your dog can learn tricks that will amaze your friends and build better behavior.
In this post, we’ll cover 7 easy dog training tricks that are perfect for beginners. These tricks require minimal equipment, are simple to teach, and are great for dogs of all ages.
1. Sit (The Gateway Trick)
“Sit” is the foundation of all good dog behavior and one of the first tricks every dog should learn.
How to Teach It:
- Hold a treat above your dog’s nose.
- Slowly move it back toward their ears.
- As their head follows the treat, their bottom will naturally lower to the floor.
- Once they sit, say “Sit” and reward them.
Why It Matters:
This trick builds focus and obedience—and makes future training easier.
2. Shake Paws
“Shake” is a fun and friendly trick that dogs usually pick up quickly.
Steps:
- Ask your dog to sit.
- Gently pick up one of their front paws while saying “Shake.”
- Praise and treat immediately.
- Repeat until they start offering their paw on their own.
Trainer Tip: Some dogs learn better with a clicker or verbal marker like “Yes!”
3. Down
Teaching your dog to lie down is helpful for calming hyper pups or keeping them still during grooming.
How to Teach It:
- Start with your dog in a sitting position.
- Hold a treat in front of their nose, then slowly lower it to the ground between their front paws.
- As they follow the treat, their body should lower too.
- Say “Down” as they lie flat, then reward.
4. Spin
This easy dog trick adds flair to your dog’s routine and can even be part of a future dance routine!
Steps:
- Hold a treat close to your dog’s nose.
- Move your hand in a circular motion.
- As your dog follows it around, say “Spin” and reward at the end of the circle.
Variation: Teach both clockwise and counter-clockwise spins for variety.
5. Touch
“Touch” teaches your dog to tap their nose to your hand. It’s useful for recall, redirection, and agility.
How to Teach:
- Hold out your palm at your dog’s nose level.
- When they sniff or touch your hand, say “Touch” and reward.
- Repeat, gradually increasing distance or adding distractions.
6. High Five
A cute and crowd-pleasing trick!
Steps:
- Start with “Shake.”
- Raise your hand slightly higher and open your palm.
- When your dog lifts their paw to meet it, say “High Five” and reward.
Bonus: Great photo opportunity for social media!
7. Roll Over
Once your dog knows “Down,” you can teach them to roll over.
Steps:
- Start in the down position.
- Move a treat in a circular motion around their head.
- As they shift weight and roll, say “Roll Over” and reward.
Note: Some dogs are hesitant at first—take it slow and reward every small step.
Tips for Success
- Keep sessions short (5–10 minutes).
- Train in a quiet space free from distractions.
- Use small, tasty treats for motivation.
- End on a positive note to keep your dog excited for next time.
Final Thoughts
Teaching your dog easy training tricks doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. With patience and positivity, even the most stubborn pups can learn fun and useful behaviors. Plus, trick training is a great way to strengthen your bond and keep your dog mentally engaged.
Whether you’re working with a new puppy or a senior dog, these simple tricks are a fantastic way to start training today.
Want more dog training tips?
Subscribe to WunderPups.com for step-by-step guides, product reviews, and expert advice delivered weekly.