Maybe you’ve spent some time researching dog buttons and are eager to learn more. Or perhaps you’ve already ordered the best-reviewed dog buttons, and you’re sitting at home with a half-dozen, unsure of what to do next. Either way, you’ve landed on this page, and we’re happy to help! Let’s start with the basic button training tips and get you started teaching your pup to “speak” using dog talking buttons.

What are dog talking buttons?

We’re going to take a guess and assume you’re somewhat familiar with this concept and already know all about the benefits of dog buttons. However, just in case you’re new to these devices, dog buttons have taken the pet parent world by storm in recent years. Videos on social media have surfaced showing pet parents communicating with their dogs, and even other pets. One viral TikTok video shows an adorable pig named Merlin using dog buttons to ask for his favorite treat.

These useful tools are helpful for various reasons, but the general idea is that they can help your dog communicate their needs to you. We all know we’ve spent a good amount of time teaching our dogs the fundamentals of training and basic commands when we want them to sit, stay, or come. It’s only fair our pets should also be able to communicate their wants, like food, outdoor time, or potty breaks. These buttons simply give our pets the ability to ask for what they need.

How to train your dog to use talking buttons

With your buttons ready, the task of training may seem daunting at first. Remember to keep the process fun for your pup. As an easy dog training tip, focus on keeping things simple when starting. In time, you may even start to string simple words together for more complicated conversations.

Repetition, repetition, repetition

Teaching your dog to use these buttons requires patience. In addition to positive reinforcement by offering a lot of rewards, the top training tip is to be ready for repetition. When your dog presses a button, it plays an audio recording of the corresponding word. Some buttons have these preprogrammed, while others are customizable. This audio prompt effectively allows your pup to “voice” their desires. With consistent practice, they can learn to use these buttons to express a variety of needs and wants. Give your pup plenty of praise as they progress.

Start training your dog with simple words

Begin by teaching your dog simple words first. Think about the commands you use daily, or maybe even your dog’s favorite words they already readily respond to. Do your pup’s ears perk up when you say “walk?” Maybe their tail starts wagging as soon as you say “treat” or “car.” Because these words likely already have a positive association, your dog will be eager to put the buttons to the test.

Set your dog talking buttons near the action

To help your pup make an association, set your button near the location of the voiced request. For example, if you’ve got a shelf or cabinet where your pup’s treats are located, maybe you place the button on the ground next to the cabinet. If your pup already knows where the treats come from, maybe start by testing out if your dog can ask for a treat using the button. Alternatively, you might want to think about putting the “outside” button right next to the door. Whatever the option, strategy can be a helpful tool when getting your pup accustomed to the dog buttons.

Model the desired behavior for your dog

We’re all familiar with the adage, “monkey see, monkey do.” Mimicry and modeling are among the most powerful tools in the learning process. When training your pup to use the buttons, start by demonstrating the desired behavior. Using the previous example for “outside,” verbally speak the desired word. Then, press the button. Upon hearing the button’s command, open the door and head outside. You might feel a little silly for this big show, but watch the effects of the performance. Repeat this multiple times, then see if you can get your dog to begin to replicate the behavior. Next, try it out with some other commands.

Shaping in dog training

Before we dive in, you might wonder, “What is shaping?” Don’t worry — you’re not alone! Although perhaps less well-known, shaping is a powerful tool in dog training. Shaping essentially breaks down larger commands into smaller steps. With shaping, you clearly define the desired behavior and then find mini-objectives that can be achieved as you work towards the final goal. Make sure to reward your dog with each accomplished step. Eventually, you’ll work your way up to achieving the desired behavior completely.

When using dog talking buttons, you’ll want to break down the overall goal. For example, if you’re trying to encourage your dog to use the button to go outside, the first step is getting them to press the button. It might begin with a nose boop or an accidental sniff that activates the button. Reward your pup for even figuring out how to press the button. That’s still a small but mighty step forward.

Next, reward when your pup intentionally chooses to press the button. Lastly, immediately reach for the door handle and open the door as soon as they press the button. Repeat this process until they’ve got the hang of it and understand the action is linked to the button.

Dog talking buttons training tip: Find the fun!

Remember to keep the training sessions fun. Not only will this help your furry friend grasp the concepts more quickly, but having fun with dog training can also help keep you engaged and motivated. This should be a rewarding experience for both you and your pup. If the process of teaching becomes overwhelming at any point, don’t hesitate to take a break. Every dog learns at their own pace, and some may pick up new skills and tricks faster than others and that’s perfectly okay. Find the fun in the process!

The post Dog Talking Buttons: Training Tips to Help Your Pup ‘Speak’ appeared first on DogTime.

Are you tired of just teaching your dog tricks? Do you want to understand what your furry friend is thinking? Dog buttons have become a popular way to bridge the communication gap between humans and their canine best friends. In case you’re new to trending devices, these innovative tools are recordable buttons programmed with words or short phrases. They allow dogs to “talk” to their humans, opening up a new world of understanding and interaction. Whether you’re simply curious or eager to get started, this introductory guide addresses some of the most frequently asked questions. It’s time to unleash the power of dog buttons!

How do dog buttons work?

Dog buttons can be likened to a walkie-talkie for dogs, designed with easy-to-press surfaces suitable for their paws. Each button is programmed with a specific word or phrase and connects to a central device, such as a standalone unit or an app on your phone.

The process is relatively straightforward: you record a phrase or word for each button. To teach your pup how to use them, you’ll create an association between each button and its corresponding word or phrase, similar to teaching a reverse command. Instead of you saying “shake” and your dog giving you their paw, a button might have a recorded action like “out,” which your pup can press to indicate their desire to go outside.

While the concept of dog buttons may seem far-fetched, research has shown that dogs possess remarkable cognitive abilities and an aptitude for learning. By associating a specific button with a desired object or action, dogs can effectively convey their intentions and broaden their means of communication with their human companions. One study showed that some dogs could learn 40 words, while the most intelligent dog breeds like Poodles, Border Collies, and German Shepherds, could learn up to 100.

How do you train dogs to use buttons?

Training your dog to use these buttons requires patience, understanding, and positive reinforcement training. When your pup presses a button, the corresponding word plays aloud, allowing them to “speak” their mind. With practice, they can use these buttons to express various needs, from mealtime to playtime to simply wanting belly rubs. Some clever dogs even learn to combine buttons to form complex sentences, giving insight into their thoughts. Of course, there are some dissenting opinions on dogs’ ability to fully grasp the concept of language, but of course, we know they’re more than capable of learning commands.

What are the first words you should teach your dog?

Begin by selecting a few words that you believe your pup can quickly grasp and would find useful, such as “walk,” “play,” or “treat.” These familiar terms likely already have positive associations for your dog, making the connection between pressing the button and the desired outcome more apparent. This approach accelerates the learning process and helps your dog understand the concept of button communication faster, which can be particularly helpful if you plan to teach your dog more complex words.

How to model and repeat the desired behavior

Model the desired behavior by pressing the buttons and repeating the associated words or phrases. Repetition is crucial for helping your dog comprehend the concept and build strong associations between the buttons and their meanings. Consistent reinforcement will solidify these connections, enabling your pup to effectively communicate their needs and wants using the buttons.

What are the benefits of using dog buttons?

The most apparent benefit of dog buttons is bridging the communication gap between humans and pups. By offering a way for dogs to express themselves through recorded words or phrases, these innovative tools can strengthen your bond by allowing you to understand your dog’s needs and desires more clearly. Beyond the obvious, dog button training is also an excellent way to stimulate your pup mentally. Brain games help your dog stay mentally fit and can ensure your dog will avoid boredom and unwanted behaviors stemming from it, like digging and chewing or attempting fancy escapes.

Choosing the right dog buttons

When choosing dog buttons, focus on durability, clear sounds, and customization. Look for buttons that can withstand pawing and have easy-to-understand recordings. Consider the number of buttons you need and their programmability. Also, ensure the design fits your home and appeals to your dog. By keeping it simple and considering these factors, you can find the right dog buttons to improve communication with your furry friend.

Get started teaching your dog to talk

Ready to start your dog button adventure? As soon as you’ve got your buttons, arrange them in a logical and accessible layout. Some companies even sell specialized mats to hold dog buttons in place.

Start with basic words, such as “potty,” “play,” or “walk,” and gradually introduce more as your dog progresses. As always, give your pup plenty of praise as they learn! For some dogs, that probably means a few treats too!

The post What Are Dog Buttons and How Do They Work? appeared first on DogTime.

January marks the official start of National Train Your Dog Month, but you can teach easy dog tricks at any time of year.

We all love our pets, but sometimes it can feel like your dog is incapable of learning any easy dog tricks. While it may feel impossible at times, with the right techniques and the proper amount of practice, just about any dog can learn. You might not know where to begin in finding tricks to teach your dog, so we’re here to help!

Committing yourself to teach your dog some tricks is a great New Year’s resolution, but it’s also a fun bonding experience for you and your dog throughout the year. Watch the following videos to learn some simple techniques that make it possible for any dog to learn tricks.

Easy tricks to teach your dog

Remember, patience and consistency are key when teaching tricks. Use positive reinforcement techniques such as treats, praise, and petting to reward your dog when they perform the desired behavior. Keep training sessions short and fun, and always end on a positive note.

Kiss

Yes, your dog may already shower you with kisses on a daily basis, but now you can actually teach them to kiss you on command.

The video above walks you through the training process step by step, showing you how to eventually work up to the final kiss. For this trick you’ll need something sticky like tape or a post-it, treats, and a clicker.

The dog in this training video not only learned how to kiss his human, but he even learned to kiss his cat friend!

Bark On Command

This cool trick to teach your dog might be for more advanced dogs and takes some extra patience, as it’s one of the tougher tricks. As the video above shows, you have to be diligent in waiting for your dog to bark by themselves first, and then reward them as they continually do it.

The dog in the video doesn’t bark immediately even though the trainer is a professional, so make sure you remember that it won’t happen right away. However, if you can master it, barking on command is a very unique trick that will definitely impress your fellow dog parents.

Shake Hands

The “Shake Hands” trick is definitely one of the cuter tricks your pup can learn. It’s quite simple and is actually one of the easiest tricks to teach.

The secret is that your dog will already naturally paw at you if they want something. When you present a closed fistful of treats, your dog will likely be compelled to paw at your hand since they can’t get the treats with their mouth.

Once they continue to paw, begin to use the command “Shake,” and after repeating it several times, your dog is sure to learn a brand new trick. Follow the instructions in the video above for more details.

Fetch

While fetch is a classic game, it’s a trick that doesn’t come naturally for some dogs.

It can become pretty frustrating when your dog won’t cooperate at play time. Some dogs are uninterested in the toy and don’t even want to try, some will go fetch the toy but not bring it back, and then there are the stubborn dogs who bring the toy back but then won’t let go.

Watch the tutorial above to see how you can get your dog interested in fetch in the first place, and then actually learn how to play fetch properly

Roll Over

At first “Roll Over” may seem like a difficult trick to attempt, but in the long run, it’s very straightforward.

All this trick demands is repetition. The more you do it, the better your dog will get.

The video above explains that the secret of “Roll Over” is doing it in three steps. Make sure you precisely lead your dog through each step, and before you know it, your friends will be asking you to teach their dogs for them!

Play Dead

“Play Dead” is a great party trick that will most definitely impress your friends and family. Unlike simpler commands like sitting or shaking hands, playing dead takes a bit more time and persistence to master.

The tutorial above uses a backwards method approach, teaching the last part of the trick first in order for the dog to learn easier. Take your time and remember to reinforce with a clicker and treats to make the process faster.

If your dog already knows the trick “Roll Over” it will be much easier for them to learn this trick.

Spin

Getting your dog to spin on command is a staple dog trick. While seemingly complicated, making your dog spin when directed can be done very easily with the right technique.

The instructor in the video above shows you how to begin with treats and eventually get to a verbal command only. However, getting your dog to spin with a verbal command only can be pretty difficult for beginners, so even if you get your dog to spin with a hand cue or treats, it’s still an accomplishment to be celebrated.

Stand On Hind Legs

While this trick may seem like something to leave to the professionals, if you’re a persistent dog parent with patience and high determination, it’s definitely doable.

In comparison to tricks like “Shake Hands” or “Spin,” this trick may seem complex, but really it’s just as easy to achieve if you put the work and effort in.

Big or small, any dog is capable of learning this if their human is just as determined. Watch the video above for details on how to pull it off.

Sit Pretty

Making your dog “Sit Pretty” isn’t just fun because it gives you the chance to take cute pictures of your pup to post to Instagram, but it’s also a great exercise for your dog.

Making your dog strike an adorable pose helps with your dog’s balance and can build core muscles. However, make sure your dog is healthy for this trick because it can strain dogs with pre-existing conditions. Watch the video above to learn how it’s done.

Hug

While you can always just give your dog a hug, this trick is neat because your dog will actually put their paws around you and hug you back. Who wouldn’t want to learn this adorable trick?

If you want to master this heartwarming hug, just remember to be understanding of the pace at which your dog learns. Also, keep in mind that it is a bit simpler for your dog to learn this trick if they already know “Sit Pretty,” but otherwise it is still very manageable.

Take a look at the video above and follow along. Your dog will get lots of “awws” from all your friends!

Be sure to check out our Advanced Tricks To Teach Your Dog!

The post 10 Easy Tricks To Teach Your Dog appeared first on DogTime.

Perhaps you’re the rare human who finds joy in hosting a Thanksgiving dinner at your home. After all, the spirit of the holiday is lovely if you’re lucky enough to have close family and friends you can celebrate with. This is, of course, to say nothing of the troubling and complicated origins of the day. Nevertheless, if you’re a food, fall, and football lover, this may even be your favorite time of the year.

Undoubtedly, hosting Thanksgiving is already an anxiety-inducing task. That’s particularly true for most introverts or really anyone who is unlucky enough not to live in an egalitarian household. It’s overwhelming if the responsibility of hosting out-of-town houseguests, each with their own unique personality, falls on you. On top of that, there’s the stress of managing the all-important menu — especially as you’re navigating an increasing number of dietary restrictions and preferences. It’s no secret that, in addition to the mental toll of that emotional work, you’re likely left with physically exhausting responsibilities as well. Deep-cleaning the nooks and crannies of your house and putting up seasonal decorations is time-consuming, occasionally even dangerous. Moreover, braving the overcrowded grocery stores and cooking for a small army is enough to turn anyone off to opening their home this holiday.

However, if you are willing to seize the day, the one thing left standing between you and your hosting duties might just be a territorial dog. As the clock strikes closer and closer to Thanksgiving mealtime, you may fear it’s too late to address your dog’s territorial behavior. Thankfully, we have some solutions to hosting a successful Thanksgiving with your little (or not so little) four-legged security guard.

What is territorial behavior

You may be asking how exactly you determine if you are, in fact, the proud owner of a territorial dog. How do you know if your pup displays what is considered to be territorial behavior?

Perhaps your dog is totally fine and even docile when it’s just you or your family occupying the residence. That said, maybe he becomes a bit of a gremlin when you add overnight visitors or rowdy dinner guests to the mix. Your canine companion may act differently if children or babies, as well as other pets, darken your doorstep. However, that may not always be the case. Either way, instead of basting the turkey or prepping mashed potatoes, you’re left consumed with worry in anticipation of your dog’s reaction to what is to come.

There are several ways a dog displays territorial behavior. Besides the obvious attack, your pet may growl or bark. He may even even urinate to let it be known that your home is their territory. Of course, none of this is ideal, but there are ways to make it better.

Long-term solutions to preventing unwanted behaviors

Early socialization with other pets and tiny humans helps to prevent these unwanted behaviors. However, if you’re in the “too little, too late” camp or recently rescued a dog with an unknown history, you must account for what your dog may do in uncomfortable situations. Responsible pet ownership means protecting not only your pet but the people they will encounter, to the best of your abilities. It also entails seeking a behaviorist to address ongoing issues or investing in long-term training. Patience and routine matter as you begin exposing your dog to new situations, places, noises, and people.

Determine the level of physical threat posed by your dog

Before you try to correct territorial behavior and potentially end up harmed in the process, ask a simple question. What is the threat level your dog poses to your guests? Is your pup a big Bullmastiff or riled-up Rottweiler, or a petite Chihuahua? That’s not to say that some small dogs don’t have a gnarly bite. It’s just taking into consideration the potential for harm to be inflicted on an unknowing human if your dog is, indeed, territorial and reacts poorly. Similarly, is your pup food-motivated, willing and eager to respond to treats? Or, does fido have a one-track mind when he’s upset?

Thanksgiving with larger territorial dogs

This holiday, you’ll need to address your guests’ safety differently if your pet is on the larger side. If your big dog can’t think of much else when they feel that their space is being encroached upon, your friends and family may be at a greater risk for injury. Unfortunately, some dogs simply can’t deal with strangers coming into their house. To be clear, that’s typically okay if you’re someone who often doesn’t entertain.

That said, if this sounds like your dog, you may need to consider forgoing your Thanksgiving hosting responsibilities. Because, even if you can contain your dog to a room away from houseguests, it may not be enough. Your dog may try to break free of his confinement or exhibit displacement behaviors, which you also want to discourage. He may ruin the ambiance by barking or growling throughout the entire afternoon. Not only would it be a nightmare for guests, but it would be a nightmare for your dog, too.

Thanksgiving with small to medium-sized dogs

While the level of physical threat to your friends and family decreases for smaller or medium-sized dogs, it isn’t nonexistent. However, it is significantly easier to handle and restrain — if necessary — a smaller animal. As such, you can simply pick the dog up and physically comfort or crate them until they calm down enough to be let free. It’s far less likely a Bichon Frise or Schnoodle will inflict any degree of serious injury before you can interject.

Despite this, some medium-sized dogs can pack quite a punch if they are determined enough. So, if your pet has a history of aggressive behavior towards anyone, leave the hosting to someone else. For legal, physical, and moral reasons, it’s always better to be safe than sorry.

How to redirect your dog’s attention

A great method for handling territorial dogs is to redirect their energy and attention. Since many dogs are food-motivated, consider distracting your pup with a treat before they engage in territorial acts. Many pets will be calmer after you provide them with a high-value snack or something that diverts their focus like a lick pad.

To be clear, don’t reward your dog for barking or growling — this is confusing for them. Moreover, it makes training your pup harder in the long run. Resist the short-term victory, even if throwing down a treat seems like an easy way to immediately stop territorial behavior.

Instead, if your dog is displaying aggressive tendencies as guests enter the home or ring the doorbell, show them a treat in your hand. Next, ask them to perform a command or trick. Essentially, you want to keep their brain busy so it doesn’t have the capacity to worry about the stranger at your door.

Do a trial run with people your dog already knows

Anticipation, practice, and persistence are key to addressing territorial behavior. If you have the time, consider doing a trial run of Thanksgiving with people your dog already knows and is comfortable with. Not only is it a good way to test how they’ll react on the day of, but it will also give you a chance to nip naughty behaviors in the bud.

Have a small circle of people over who your pet has seen in your home at some point. This can include a relative, friend, or neighbor. Have them ring the doorbell or knock, giving you a chance to offer your dog a treat as they enter. As a reminder, don’t reward your dog if he is barking, growling, or otherwise displaying territorial behavior. Either have each person enter separately or repeat the exercise several times. It’s crucial that your dog associates a knock at the door or a ring of the bell with getting a tasty cookie or mouthful of cheese.

Advise your Thanksgiving guests how to act around your territorial dog

You can do everything in your power to redirect your pup’s energy and you may do it all perfectly. Nevertheless, it still may not be enough to prevent your territorial dog from putting a damper on Thanksgiving festivities. That is to say, if the human they are reacting to is similarly freaking out, things can go south quickly.

Without frightening your guests or warding them off from attending a meal you’ve spent days cooking, have an honest conversation to prepare them. Alert them to your dog’s territorial tendencies so everyone knows what to expect in advance. Let them know if your pet has any specific triggers. Most importantly, advise your friends and family to behave calmly and normally when walking into your home. And, if they are comfortable, meet them outside to arm them with treats. Assuming you did a trial run or have been training for the big day, your dog should be expecting treats when someone enters the door.

How to have the happiest holiday with your pets

There is no foolproof way to respond to a reactive dog, but there are steps you can take to mitigate their reaction. Thankfully, with a little preparation and a lot of patience, everyone can enjoy Thanksgiving in your home, even if it’s one shared with a territorial pet.

So, loosen your belt and get on your way to that glorious food-coma-induced nap in front of the fire! Perhaps you’ll even be able to share the snooze with your pet if they partake in eating Thanksgiving foods safe for dogs this holiday. That said, be sure to avoid sharing any tasty morsels that pose a danger to your pooch. The last thing you need is a headache that comes from an emergency vet bill instead of the bottle of Barolo you’ve waited all year to uncork.

The post How to Host Thanksgiving With a Territorial Dog appeared first on DogTime.

Ready to take your furry friend’s training to the next level? Here are some advanced tricks to teach your dog. These tricks are not only impressive, but they can also help to keep your dog mentally stimulated and engaged.

Dog Trick List

Here are some additional tips for teaching your dog advanced tricks. We recommend starting with your easy dog trick list before moving on to advanced dog tricks.

• Start with the basics. Make sure your dog knows the basic commands such as sit, stay, and come before you start teaching them advanced tricks.
• Be patient and consistent. Teaching your dog advanced tricks takes time and patience. Don’t get discouraged if your dog doesn’t learn a trick right away. Just keep practicing and they will eventually get it.
• Use positive reinforcement. Always reward your dog for good behavior. This will help them to learn that performing tricks is fun and rewarding.
• Keep training sessions short and fun. Dogs have short attention spans, so it’s important to keep training sessions short and fun. This will help them to stay engaged and motivated.

Back up

Teach your dog to walk backwards by holding a treat in front of their nose and slowly backing up. As your dog follows the treat, they will naturally start to walk backwards. Once they are able to walk backwards a few steps, give them the treat and praise them. Repeat this process until your dog can walk backwards comfortably.

Balance treat on nose, flip to eat (when told “OK”)

Start by teaching your dog to sit and stay. Then, place a small treat on their nose. If they keep it there for a few seconds, say “OK” and let them eat it. Repeat this process until your dog can keep the treat on their nose for longer periods of time. Once they are able to do this, you can start to teach them to flip the treat into their mouth on command. To do this, simply say “OK” and then immediately hold your hand up to block their vision. This will cause them to instinctively flip the treat into their mouth to get it out of the way. As soon as they do this, praise them and give them another treat.

Barrel

Teach your dog to roll by holding a treat in front of their nose and slowly rolling it over. As your dog follows the treat, they will naturally start to roll. Once they are able to roll over a few times, give them the treat and praise them. Repeat this process until your dog can roll over on command.

Basketball

Teach your dog to play basketball by placing a hoop on the ground and putting a ball inside of it. Then, show your dog the ball and let them sniff it. Once they are interested, start bouncing the ball in front of them. As they get closer to the hoop, encourage them to put the ball inside. If they are successful, give them a treat and praise them. Repeat this process until your dog can consistently put the ball in the hoop.

Bow

Teach your dog to bow by holding a treat in front of their nose and slowly lowering it down towards the ground. As your dog follows the treat, they will naturally start to lower their head. Once they are bowing, give them the treat and praise them. Repeat this process until your dog can bow on command.

Circle right, circle left

Teach your dog to circle by holding a treat in front of their nose and slowly walking in a circle. As your dog follows the treat, they will naturally start to circle around you. Once they are circling, give them the treat and praise them. Repeat this process until your dog can circle on command in both directions.

Cover your eyes (paw over eyes)

Start by teaching your dog to sit and stay. Then, hold your hand up in front of their face and say “cover your eyes.” If they touch your hand with their paw, give them a treat and praise them. Repeat this process until your dog can cover their eyes on command.

Cover-up with blanket

Teach your dog to cover themselves with a blanket by placing a blanket over their back and saying “cover up.” If they stay under the blanket for a few seconds, give them a treat and praise them. Repeat this process until your dog can cover themselves with the blanket on command.

Dance/moonwalk

Teach your dog to dance by holding a treat in front of their nose and slowly moving your hand in a dance move. As your dog follows the treat, they will naturally start to dance with you. Once they are dancing, give them the treat and praise them. Repeat this process until your dog can dance different moves on command.

Embarrassed

Teach your dog to be embarrassed by pretending to be embarrassed yourself. For example, you could cover your face with your hands and shake your head. As your dog watches you, they will start to associate the feeling of embarrassment with your behavior. Once they understand what embarrassment is, you can start to teach them to be embarrassed on command. To do this, simply cover your face with your hands and say “embarrassed.” If your dog looks away or covers their face with their paws, give them a treat and praise them. Repeat this process until your dog can be embarrassed on command.

Go hide (get under table, etc.)

Teach your dog to go hide by saying “go hide” and then pointing to a hiding spot. As your dog goes to the hiding spot, encourage them to stay there. Once they are hidden, give them a treat

What are the benefits of teaching your dog advanced tricks?

Teaching your dog advanced tricks is a great way to keep them mentally stimulated and engaged. It can also be a lot of fun for both of you! Just remember to be patient and consistent with your training, and use positive reinforcement methods. With a little effort, you can teach your dog to do some amazing things!

Advanced dog tricks are a great way to challenge your dog’s mind and body. They can also be a fun way to show off your dog’s skills and impress your friends. With a little patience and training, you can teach your dog to do some amazing tricks. So why not give it a try?

The post Advanced Tricks To Teach Your Dog appeared first on DogTime.

Training your dog to come should be as easy as, “Rover, come on over!” And sometimes it is, at least with puppies. Brand-new pups will approach anything with a pulse. Other dogs, however, will need more training to learn the “come” command. We’ll show you how to help your dog learn this crucial command.

Training your dog to “come” with praise

Praising your pup when they do what you ask is common sense. During early training, it is important to praise your pup all the time they approach. However, do not think of puppy recall as an all-or-none response. Instead, reward your puppy’s first step towards you, and then continue to reward the pup all the time it approaches.

At some time in your puppy’s life, they will: 1) start towards you but run off when they sees a distraction, 2) run off when you reach for their collar and 3) not even bother to come at all.

Later on in training, you can reprimand the pup if they try to run off, but punishing the pup during early training will decrease the likelihood of coming when called. Also, it would be unfair to reprimand the pup for doing something wrong if you didn’t previously praise the pup for doing what is right. So, praise your puppy all the time it is headed in your direction.

If the pup does not come or if it reverses direction mid-recall, immediately get the pup’s attention by shouting their name, and then quickly run away from the pup. Immediately begin praising your pup as soon as they head towards you again.

Using treats to teach the “come” command

Why give your puppy a treat? Well, eventually, recall should be an all-or-nothing response. The food treat is a special reward for your pup once they obey. If you give your pup a treat immediately after taking hold of their collar, they will soon anticipate you grabbing their collar. And they will grow to love it!

The wrong way to train

It’s crucial to train your pup before they reach adolescence and start training you! A growing puppy may rebel during training. At first, the pup may duck their head as you reach for their collar. Then, they may approach you but stay an arm’s length away. Next, they’ll play “catch me if you can.” Eventually, your pup won’t come at all. Why? Because you inadvertently trained the pup not to come when called. How? By punishing the dog when it comes.

Never call your dog to punish it! For example, if your dog soiled the house in your absence, it’s too late for punishment now. Your dog will not associate the delayed punishment with the crime, but they will definitely associate the punishment with approaching you! Just put your dog outside while you clean up the mess. And in the future, until you have housetrained your dog, don’t let them have the run of the house when you are not at home. If you do call your dog and punish them, not only will you still have to housetrain your dog, but also you will have to repair your dog’s damaged confidence and retrain them to come when called.

Do not use “come here” as a control command until you have practiced and perfected reliable, integrated recalls. Until then, use “sit” or “down,” which are much simpler commands. Then, say “come here” once you know you have the dog’s attention (because they are sitting). A reliable recall is one of the most difficult commands to maintain, whereas “sit” and “down” are the two easiest.

Never call your dog to confine them. Instead use a place-command, such as: “Go to your crate,” “Go to your mat,” or “Outside.”

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It’s crucial to start housetraining your dog as soon as possible — ideally, the day your new dog or puppy comes home. The habits your pup forms now can set the precedent for weeks, months, or even years to come. A little effort upfront saves lots of time and frustration later on. Once you’ve set up your home with the proper supplies, you can get started on housetraining your dog. While the process is quite simple, the program you follow will vary depending on your situation.

Housetraining if your dog can go outside

Then you’re ready to start. Here are the three steps to fail-proof housetraining:

Keep your dog in their crate

Your dog should stay in a crate with a few stuffed chew toys to keep them entertained when you’re not playing with them or watching them closely. This is also where your dog should sleep. A crated pup will “hold it” to avoid soiling their sleeping area.

Release your dog from the crate every hour

Then, quickly run your dog — on a leash if necessary — to a potty area outside. It’s best to use the same area each time so pick a spot that’s convenient for poop-scooping. Tell your dog to “Go pee or poop!” or “Do your business!” Give them about three minutes to go. Stand still and let your dog circle, which is normal dog behavior, before eliminating. Most puppies will pee at each bathroom break, and poop every two to three breaks.

Praise your dog enthusiastically

Praise your pup immediately after they pee or poop. Then, reward them with treats. It’s a good idea to stash some treats in a screw-top jar near the potty area so you’ll have them close at hand.

After your dog goes potty, take them back inside for a play or training session for 30 minutes or so. If your dog’s old enough to safely venture into the outside world (3 months of age at the earliest), take them for a post-poop walk as an additional reward.

Housetraining if your dog can’t go outside

Without a yard, you’ll need to teach your pup to use an indoor toilet until they have enough immunity to doggy diseases to go outside (3 months of age at the earliest). Then you can start the three-step housetraining routine described above. In the meantime:

Keep your dog in a “puppy playroom” with a doggy toilet

Create a dog room where your pup can stay when you’re not able to keep a close eye on them. If you want your city pup to always use an indoor toilet, it makes things easier in the long run if the playroom is in the same spot where you want their eventual indoor toilet to be.

If your pup circles, sniffs, or shows other signs that they’re about to eliminate, call and entice your dog to the doggy toilet.

When your dog uses the toilet, praise them profusely

Then, reward them with treats. If they start to eliminate outside the toilet area, shout their name to distract them. Then, try to urge your pup toward the right spot.

To relocate the indoor toilet, move it gradually (1 or 2 feet a day) to the new site, and go back to rewarding the dog every time they eliminate in the correct spot. And right from the beginning, lay down a doggy toilet in the final toilet area. When you’re home, try to lure your pup to that area and reward them for eliminating there.

Once your pup is old enough to walk around outside, you can start the three-step housetraining program described above.

Frequently asked questions about housetraining dogs

Why not just put the dog outside and let them eliminate by themself?

The whole point of the housetraining routine is so you’ll be there to offer praise and rewards when they go in the right spot. Also, if you see your dog eliminate, you know they’re empty. Then, you can let them explore the house (under supervision) for a while before returning them to their crate.

Why command the dog to eliminate? They know they want to go!

By instructing your dog to eliminate before they go and rewarding them afterward, you’ll teach your pup to go on command. Eliminating on cue is a boon when you’re traveling with your dog or short on time. Ask your dog to “Do your business,” “Go pee and poop,” or some other cue that you don’t often use in normal conversation.

Why give the puppy three minutes to eliminate? Isn’t one minute enough if they need to go?

Usually, a young pup will pee within 30 seconds of being released from their crate, but it may take one or two minutes for him to poop.

What if the dog doesn’t eliminate when I take them outside?

Your dog will be more likely to eliminate if you stand still and let them circle around you on leash. But if they doesn’t go within three minutes, no biggie! Simply pop the pup back in their crate and try again in 30 minutes. Repeat the process over and over until they eliminate.

Why praise the dog? Isn’t relief sufficient reward?

Exuberant praise and lavish rewards are the keys to successful housetraining. Tell your dog that he has done a most wonderful and glorious thing!

So as soon as your dog has done their business, profusely pet, praise, and reward them. If you really show your appreciation, your dog will be eager to do the right thing in the right place.

Why offer treats? Isn’t praise enough of a reward?

No! Many dog parents don’t praise their dogs with enough enthusiasm to really get the point across. Consequently, it’s a good idea to give the dog a food treat or two (or three) for their effort.

Your dog will conclude, “Wow! My parent’s great. Every time I pee or poop outside, they give me a treat. I never get yummy treats when I do it on the couch. I can’t wait for my parent to come home so I can go outside and cash in my urine and feces for food treats!” Housetraining dogs is much easier when there are rewards involved!

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Cars, squirrels, cyclists, skateboarders, cats, and joggers — they’re all would-be targets. Any one of them could lure a chase-obsessive dog into a potentially dangerous situation. Chasing behavior can also trigger understandably hostile reactions. Some people might see it as aggression when a strange dog comes bounding after them.

Until you can keep your dog from chasing, keep them on a leash in public. At home, make sure your yard is securely fenced with no opportunity for digging under or jumping over.

Here’s what you need to know about chasing behavior in dogs.

Causes of chasing behavior in dogs

Almost all canines are hardwired to chase prey. Without that vital impulse, dogs in the wild would never have had a chance at survival.

Domestic dogs, of course, don’t need to hunt for food, but the instinct remains intact and manifests in some unlikely urges. What would a dog do with a ’97 Chevy if they caught one anyway?

Some breeds are naturally more prey driven than others. Greyhounds and certain types of terriers are notorious chasers. You must keep these dogs under control with a leash or a fenced-in yard. Make sure that yard is secure, especially if your pup is a known escape artist.

But all of that doesn’t mean that impulse control can’t be learned and sharpened.

How to treat the problem

Teaching a dog not to chase takes time and effort. Getting help from a reputable trainer is strongly recommended.

There are, however, steps you can take on your own:

• As with any behavior issue, providing plenty of mental and physical exercise reduces the need for your dog to find their own outlet.
• Present alternative means of release. Agility classes are both a fun and effective way to harness your dog’s intense desire to chase. Play fetch with them or toss a Frisbee, and reward them only when they chase appropriate targets. In other words, train them to recognize that the only acceptable prey is the one you throw.
• Teach them the command “come.” This improves impulse control.
• Continually add to their repertoire of tricks. The ability to respond to numerous commands helps improve impulse control, and it provides needed mental stimulation.
• Establish a no-fail cue word. That is, create a cue that signals to your dog that their very favorite treat is coming their way. Be prepared to deliver should the occasion demand it. For example, if stinky cheese sends them to the moon, cue the word “cheese,” using it only when the most high-value reward is necessary (i.e., they’re about to bolt and have ignored your command to “come”). Of course, in order for the cue to retain its holding power, you must deliver the reward any time they successfully respond.

How to prevent chasing

Establishing a strong foundation of obedience training is critical. Training creates a respectful pet. It also hones impulse control and reinforces their tendency to look to you for guidance.

Teach them “come” and “off” from the beginning, and make sure they’re well mannered both on and off leash. You should rely on a professional trainer if possible, especially if you’re not an experienced dog parent.

Also, take care to not inadvertently encourage chasing. For example, if your dog runs off with your slippers, don’t chase them. Participating in their game actually rewards the behavior.

The prey drive is an instinctual part of canine behavior. Most dogs love the thrill of the chase. But because the behavior can lead them directly into harm’s way, it’s important to treat it, if not prevent it altogether.

Early, comprehensive training and plenty of exercise are the two most effective tactics.

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Potty training a dog can be a daunting task if you’ve never done it before. But, as they say, there’s a first time for everything. And housetraining is achievable with persistence and consistency. Dogs are usually pretty quick learners, and housetraining might not be as difficult as you think, so long as you follow some good advice. Here are 10 things dog parents should know about potty training.

1. You have to catch them in the act

If you come home and find a mess, there’s no use in yelling or punishing your dog. Pups can understand that you’re upset, but it’s hard for them to connect that to a behavior that they’re no longer doing.

The best thing to do is catch them in the act, then quickly take them outside. Then, they can understand that the act of going in the house is what upsets you.

2. Positive reinforcement goes a long way

Speaking of yelling and punishment, it’s not that effective when compared to treats and praise for doing the right thing. When your dog goes outside to do their business, you really need to provide lots of rewards. Your pup will learn much faster with positive reinforcement.

3. Dogs don’t really feel guilty, but they fake it well

Guilty dogs may be a trend on the internet, but dogs don’t feel guilt the way humans do.

Sure they shrink back, avoid eye contact, and look sad, but they’re really more afraid of eliciting a disappointed reaction from their humans. Dogs don’t know that going potty inside the house is wrong; they just understand that they will be rewarded for doing it outside.

So don’t shame your dog, as it just makes them unhappy without really teaching them anything.

4. Avoid water before bed

Dogs are a bit like human children in that liquids before bed may mean accidents during the night. If your dog can’t hold it through the night, maybe it’s time to set the water bowl aside before bed. A final trip outside can also reduce the risk of an accident during the night.

5. What goes in must come out

You probably understand this idea already, but when your dog eats or drinks, it’s going to have to come out the other end. That means that your dog’s poop and pee schedules rely a lot on when they’ve eaten.

Dog parents know that they need to pay attention to meal time to know when outside time needs to happen. Experienced dog parents can tell you exactly when their pups will need to go potty after a meal.

Also, changes in your dog’s food, and especially eating people food, affect your pup’s potty schedule, so watch out when messing with their diet.

6. Weather is not an excuse

When a dog’s gotta go, a dog’s gotta go, and during the training process, you need to tag along with them.

It’s important that you are outside with your pup, no matter the weather, to provide praise for a job well done during training.

Your dog might also be apprehensive about going outside in some kinds of weather, but having you with them will go a long way in teaching your pup that potty needs to happen outside, whether it’s rain or shine.

7. Consistency is key

Training is a process that demands consistency. Your pup should learn when to expect outdoor time during the day. Don’t skip on the praise and rewards for a job well done. Dogs learn best when training becomes routine, so make sure you keep at it and don’t skip a day.

8. Dogs give you signs

Dog parents almost always know when their pups need to do their business. That’s because they learn to read the signs their dogs give them.

These signs are sometimes individual to dogs. They may pace, wander aimlessly, jump on you, beg, or stare you down. When you see these signs, take your pup out right away. If they go, now you know what they were trying to tell you!

9. Accidents happen

Even the best-trained dogs can have accidents from time to time. Pups get sick, or they get scared, or they get anxious, and accidents happen. There’s no use getting upset over it, especially when your dog can’t control it.

Keep an eye on your pup’s behavior. If accidents become more frequent, even after training, it may be time for a trip to the vet to see if something is wrong. Anything from a urinary tract infection to diabetes to separation anxiety can cause accidents.

10. Dogs learn way faster than kids

Dogs learn where to go potty much, much faster than children, and they have an easier time learning, too. Any experienced dog parent can tell you that potty training is easier than it sounds, and it doesn’t take long for your pup to understand the rules.

So don’t be daunted. Stay consistent, and your pup will be doing their business outside all the time before you know it.

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New pet parents often have a lot of questions when it comes to crate training their dogs. It’s important for a lot of reasons. A crate can keep your dog safe while you’re away, reduce destructive behaviors, and help with housetraining, among other things.

Some people worry that crate confinement is cruel. However, if you do it right, your dog won’t see it that way at all. Their crate can be a cozy den where they retreat from household chaos or just relax. It’s like their own personal bedroom.

And once they’re housetrained, your dog will have the run of the house as well as a nice little den of their own. Just remember to leave the door open for them.

How can crate training help

Crates make particularly good tools for two important training tasks: housetraining, and reducing both boredom and separation anxiety.

Crates make housetraining easier. Because dogs don’t like to pee or poop where they sleep and eat, they’ll likely feel more motivated to hold it when they’re in their crate.

Pop your dog in their crate whenever you’re not with them, and they won’t have any accidents around the house. This prevents a bad habit from forming.

Take them out for bathroom breaks regularly, and they’re more likely to eliminate outdoors. This helps them learn good habits.

Crates also help prevent boredom and separation anxiety.

If you stock their crate with toys, especially chew toys stuffed with a few treats or xylitol-free peanut butter, they’ll learn two more good habits: chewing on their toys rather than your favorite shoes, and settling down to entertain themselves when you’re not around.

How to choose a crate

If your dog’s crate is too big, they may feel that they can eliminate at one end and still keep their living area clean. If it’s too small, they’ll feel cramped.

The ideal crate size is just big enough for your dog to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. It should be just long enough so that their nose and rear end don’t touch each end of the crate.

If you’ve got a puppy but don’t want to buy new crates as they grow, you can block off part of an adult-sized crate to keep them on one side of it. Some crates come with dividers just for this purpose.

Most crates are made of either collapsible wire or solid plastic, each of which has its pros and cons.

Wire crates let your dog keep an eye on what’s going on around them. They’re good for a dog who’s prone to feeling lonely, and they’re usually cheaper.

Solid plastic crates can do double duty on plane or car trips, and they have a more den-like atmosphere, which an easily overstimulated dog may prefer. However, you can make a wire crate cozier by draping a blanket over the top and sides, leaving the door uncovered.

How to make the crate feel like home

Lining the crate with bedding makes it cozier, but some dogs may see the bedding as toilet or chewing material. If that happens, remove the bedding for a while. Never line the crate with shredded newspaper — it’s too tempting for your dog to use it as a toilet.

Bumper pads for the sides, like those you’d use for a baby’s crib, can make the crate more comfortable and prevent trapped paws, tooth damage from gnawing on metal, snagged collars, and other injuries.

A hot water bottle wrapped in a towel at night can comfort a new puppy, replacing the warmth of sleeping with littermates.

Finally, if the crate slides around on the floor, put a towel underneath it to give it more grip.

Put the crate somewhere that gets a lot of foot traffic — perhaps the kitchen or family room — to keep your dog from feeling isolated. This will help acclimate them to the noise and bustle of your household.

You can also get a portable crate that you take with you as you move around the house.

How to get a puppy used to the crate

If you’ve got a puppy, it’s fairly easy to teach them that the crate is a happy place.

Usually, all it takes is stuffing a chew toy with treats. Let your pup sniff it, and put it in the crate. Your puppy will most likely follow.

Or put a few snacks just outside the door, then just inside, then all the way in the back of the crate, and your pup will follow the treat trail right in.

Teach them to associate the crate with good things, like treats. Allow them to explore the crate with the door open while you’re there to supervise. Do not use the crate as a punishment, or else your puppy may learn to fear the crate.

How to get an adult dog used to the crate

Adult dogs who’ve never been crate trained need more time and effort to get used to their new den.

As soon as you bring your dog home, feed them all their meals inside the crate. If they won’t go all the way in, put the bowl just inside, so they’ll at least poke their head in. At the next meal, you can put the bowl a little further inside the crate; the next meal even further, and so on.

In addition, give your dog chew toys and chew bones only when they’re in their crate.

Practice going in and out of the crate. Tell your dog in a cheerful tone of voice, “Go to your crate,” and toss a treat inside. Leave the door open, and let them fetch the treat.

Do this a few times, and once they’re happily going in and out, close the door with them inside for a minute or two. As long as they’re resting inside calmly, praise them and offer an occasional treat.

Gradually lengthen the amount of time your dog spends in the crate with the door closed, but stay in the room. Then begin to leave the room for short periods, which you can slowly stretch out.

This process can take several days. Go slowly and proceed to the next step only if your dog seems happy being in the crate.

To keep your dog feeling positive about spending time in their crate, don’t ever put them in it as a punishment, and give them plenty of breaks for bathroom trips, walks, and time to play and bond with you.

A crate is a training tool, not a place to stick your dog and forget about them. If a dog spends your entire workday in their crate and sleeps there at night, they’re spending too much time confined to a small space.

What to do if your dog whines and cries

It’s common for dogs to protest when they’re getting used to the crate. Usually, they just want out, in which case you should ignore them. Otherwise, you’re teaching your dog that whining will get them what they want.

Wait until your dog quiets down before letting them out, and then try again later with a shorter period of confinement.

However, it’s also possible that your dog needs a bathroom break. If you suspect that’s the case, take them outside, but make it all business: no playing or romping. If they don’t eliminate within a minute or two, they go back inside.

A dog who truly panics inside the crate could hurt themself in their attempts to get out. In that case, the crate is not serving its purpose as a place where your dog can feel — and be — safe and secure.

Explore other methods of housetraining, and consider whether this dog simply doesn’t need a crate to be reliable alone inside the house.

Crate training is the easiest way to housetrain dogs, and it also teaches them how to settle down and entertain themselves when you leave. However, crates won’t work if you use them to punish a dog or keep them “out of sight, out of mind.”

Use the crate only when necessary, give your dog plenty of breaks to stretch their legs and to play and bond with you, and make crate time more pleasant by stocking it with toys.

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