
If you'd like to teach your dog a trick, you always have to have a small treat ready, such as a piece of cheese, a baby carrot, or a part of a dog biscuit to give the dog when she successfully performs the trick. The food is used to reward the dog. You also want to praise her for completing the task. This will guarantee success. It does for Liberty.
When I first show Liberty a new trick it may take her a couple of tries before she understands what I want her to do. If your dog does not get it on the first try or even on several tries, don't get mad. This is the number one rule. If you get mad, your dog might not want to do the trick anymore because he or she is afraid of you getting upset. Making your dog afraid won't get you anywhere and trying to continue teaching would be an upsetting experience and no fun for anyone.
I have found one of the best ways to teach a new trick is using a hand sign and saying a short word like, "Speak!" or "Sit!" If you'd like your dog to sit, pointing downwards and saying "Sit!" clearly and loudly will help your dog to remember what to do. To have your dog understand what you want them to do, firmly push (not too hard) their hind legs down until they are in a sitting position. Then give them a small treat. Doing this repeatedly will help them understand their task. Don't forget to show them a lot of affection during the teaching session. Dogs love to petted and praised.
There you have it. If you'd like to see Liberty's newest tricks, click on the video below. Bye!