One of our early trainers required at least one trick during the final exam for the course. He used it as a matrix, I believe, for handler’s commitment to their dogs. Plus, he joked, “If you teach your dogs tricks, I KNOW you’ll want to show off. And, if I can get you to train your dog when company is over, then I’ve done my job.”
Lilly won second place in tricks for that class. We have a ribbon and everything. She took first in obedience, but lost in tricks to a dog that failed the obedience exam. Yes, I say that with a bit of vindication in my voice. :o)
But, I think he was right. There is something about tricks that keeps things happy and light and fun. I use various forms of tricks to keep Lilly’s attention on me when she’s nervous. If she won’t do tricks, that’s a clear sign that she’s over threshold. If she won’t take treats at all, then we’re in BIG trouble.
Our newest trick involves the skateboard, which we’re doing both because it’s funny and because I hope it will help her get over her fear of them.
I once started to teach her the Hokey Pokey, a little song and dance. We got the right foot in. We got the right foot out, but we got completely stuck with shake it all about.
The word SHAKE means something else to Lilly. I tried to teach that part as a physical cue, rather than a verbal one, but I gave up. I supposed it’s like Canine Freestyle, which looks quite hard to me.
I’m looking for new trick ideas, so fess up … What nutty things have you convinced your dog to do for food? And, how did you teach it?
Wish I could contribute something original, but I’m so uncreative in this area. 🙂
Sylvia’s trick videos are amazing aren’t they! There’s also an agility beagle who does a bunch of the same tricks and some others too; I find their trick videos a great inspiration when looking for a new trick to teach. Part 1 of the beagle’s trick videos is at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BUe5Xsn7heU&feature=related .
I haven’t. I’ll have to check that out. Thanks for the tip.
Have you seen Sylvia Trkman’s website? She trains her dogs to do some amazing things. http://www.silvia.trkman.net/