Old tricks for new dogs

GIVE ME FIVE or SHAKE HANDS!

* Grab your pooch’s attention by showing him his favourite treat/toy.

* Hold the treat in one hand and then, ask him to sit in front of you

* The pup will get excited — bark or jump — at you. Let him do that in the initial stages. You can even reward him if he lifts both front legs up in the air

* Now, tap on his front leg with your free hand, and use the treat to encourage him to move his feet. Keep saying ‘Good Boy’ all the time. Do not force him or pull his leg.

* Now, praise him when he lifts one of his paws and gives it in your hand. Your pet is now understanding the trick.

* Practice this three-four times in a day and for several days.

* Don’t give him treats unless he performs the trick. Afterwards, praise and treat him only when he performs the trick to perfection. Alternatively, you can also teach your dog to give you a “High Five” instead of a normal shake hand. Teach him to lift his paws and give you a ‘High Five’.

ROLL OVER

* Ask your dog to lie down flat on the ground.

* Hold your dog’s favourite treat in your hand and keep it close to his nose.

* Now, move your slowly hand from left to the right, and encourage your dog to turn his body accordingly.

* Initially, praise the dog even if he is just able to lie flat on his belly but is unable to turn his body completely to the other side.

* Practice it step by step and give your dog some time to understand it.

* Do not move your hand too fast or away from the dog’s body or else he will might get up and reach out for his treat.

While training, always be very patient with your dog.

Pooja Sathe — Contributing Writer — Dogs and Pups Magazine (www.dogsandpups.net)