Once your dog has mastered the classic sit, stay, and come, it’s only natural to want to push things a little further. Not only does trick training provide mental stimulation, but it also strengthens the bond between you and your pup. Here are seven fun and impressive tricks that go beyond the basics — perfect for showing off or just keeping your dog happily challenged.
Shake It Up: Teach a High-Five
High-fives aren’t just cute. They help reinforce paw awareness and coordination. Start by asking for a “shake” and gradually raise your hand higher, rewarding your dog when they lift their paw to touch it. Before you know it, your pup will be doling out celebratory high-fives on cue.
Spin in Circles
Teaching your dog to spin is a great way to get them moving. Hold a treat close to their nose and slowly guide them in a circle. Once they follow the motion smoothly, add the verbal cue “spin” or “twirl.” This trick is especially helpful as a warm-up before more physically demanding tasks.
Play Dead: The Classic Crowd-Pleaser
“Bang!” followed by your dog dramatically flopping over never gets old. Begin by having your dog lie down, then use a treat to guide their head to the side while saying “bang” or “play dead.” Mark the moment they roll onto their side and stay still with praise and a reward. It takes patience, but the end result is a guaranteed applause-getter.
Tidy Up Their Toys
Yes, dogs can help with chores. Teach them to pick up toys and drop them into a bin by combining the commands “take it” and “drop it.” Once they understand the sequence, introduce the toy bin and start rewarding them for making the connection. It’s a practical trick that also helps cut down your cleanup time.
Peekaboo!
This adorable trick has your dog come between your legs and peek out from behind you. Start by standing with your legs apart and luring your dog from behind with a treat. As they pass through and peek forward, say “peekaboo” and reward them. It’s an endearing move that’s fun for photos and public demonstrations.
Ring a Bell to Go Outside
Want a polite way for your dog to ask to go out? Hang a bell by the door and teach your dog to nudge it with their nose or paw. Begin by rewarding them for touching the bell, then open the door after each ring. Over time, they’ll associate the sound with going outside — a win for communication on both sides.
Walk Backward
This trick improves your dog’s body awareness and focus. Stand in front of them and take a small step toward them while using the cue “back.” Most dogs will instinctively step backward. Mark the movement and reward. With practice, they’ll learn to back up on command, and it looks impressively coordinated when done smoothly.
Trick training should always be fun for both you and your dog. Keep sessions short, reward progress (even the small wins), and celebrate each new skill. The goal isn’t perfection — it’s connection. And with each trick learned, your dog’s confidence (and yours) grows stronger.
