Most dog owners are familiar with the classics like sit, stay, and roll over. But did you know there are dozens of unusual, clever, and downright delightful tricks you can teach your dog?
These aren’t just for laughs. They also strengthen your bond, encourage mental stimulation, and get the whole family involved. Plus, kids love showing off what their dog can do!
Here are some of the most fun and surprising tricks your dog can learn, with tips on how to teach them safely and effectively.
1. Ring a Bell to Go Outside
Why it’s cool: Your dog learns to communicate without barking or scratching at the door.
How to teach it:
- Hang a bell by the door at nose or paw level.
- Every time you go out, guide your dog to touch or tap the bell.
- Praise and reward after they ring it.
- Over time, your dog will ring the bell when they need to go out.
Kid Tip: Let kids decorate the bell or keep a chart of “bell success” days!
2. Play Hide and Seek
Why it’s cool: It works your dog’s nose and builds recall skills.
How to teach it:
- Have your dog sit and stay, then go hide in a nearby room.
- Call them once you’re hidden.
- When they find you, throw a party: treats, pets, praise!
Fun Twist: Let kids hide with treats in their pockets. Dogs LOVE this version!
3. Tidy Up Toys
Why it’s cool: Your dog helps clean up while learning a purposeful task.
How to teach it:
- Get a basket and your dog’s favorite toy.
- Encourage them to drop the toy into the basket using the command “clean up” or “put it away.”
- Reward big! Repeat with different toys until it becomes a game.
Family Idea: Make a race out of it! Time how fast your dog can clean up.
4. Spin in a Circle
Why it’s cool: Great for agility and fun for dance-style tricks.
How to teach it:
- Hold a treat near your dog’s nose.
- Slowly move your hand in a circle.
- Say “spin” as they follow the motion.
- Reward when they complete the circle!
Kid Bonus: Let children draw the spin path on paper to visualize the move.
5. Crawl Like a Soldier
Why it’s cool: Builds body awareness and core strength.
How to teach it:
- Have your dog lie down.
- Place a treat in front of them and slowly drag it forward.
- Say “crawl” as they move.
- Reward small movements and increase distance gradually.
Pro Tip: Use a low coffee table or a tunnel toy to help guide the motion.
6. Cover Their Eyes (“Shy Dog”)
Why it’s cool: Makes for adorable photos and performances!
How to teach it:
- Use a sticky note or tape to gently touch your dog’s nose.
- As they try to swipe it off with their paw, say “shy!” or “peek-a-boo.”
- Reward when they paw at their face.
- Slowly remove the sticker and teach them to do it on cue.
Fun Photo Idea: Add a bowtie or hat and snap a silly shy-dog selfie!
7. Say Prayers
Why it’s cool: A funny and theatrical trick that kids love teaching.
How to teach it:
- Have your dog place their front paws on a low stool or chair.
- Use the command “pray” as you gently guide their head down.
- Reward the position and extend the duration over time.
Kid Add-On: Teach your child a script like “Bless the kibble, bless the treats…”
8. Balance a Treat on the Nose
Why it’s cool: Patience, focus, and serious snack control.
How to teach it:
- Start with a soft treat and have your dog sit still.
- Place the treat gently on their nose.
- Use “wait” and reward quickly, even for short holds.
- Build up to longer balance times before the “okay!” release.
Safety Note: Always supervise and use safe, non-slippery treats.
9. Speak and Whisper
Why it’s cool: Helps control barking while adding flair to your dog’s vocabulary.
How to teach it:
- Teach “speak” by rewarding a single bark on command.
- Once they’ve mastered it, lower your tone and whisper “quiet.”
- Reward for silence or a soft bark.
Family Fun: Let each person take turns being the “audience” while the dog performs.
10. Blow Bubbles or Pop Them
Why it’s cool: This combines play and exercise—especially fun for puppies and kids.
How to teach it:
- Use pet-safe bubbles (made for dogs).
- Blow a few and point them out.
- Encourage your dog to jump and pop.
- Reward when they get the idea!
Fun for All: This is a great outdoor game the whole family can enjoy together.
Bonus Trick: Teach Your Dog to “Paint”
Why it’s cool: Artsy, messy, and totally unique.
How to teach it:
- Tape a paintbrush to a toy your dog likes to hold.
- Offer dog-safe, non-toxic paints on a canvas.
- Encourage your dog to touch the brush to paper.
- Say “paint!” and let them make colorful strokes.
Kid Tip: Add paw prints too! Frame your family’s masterpiece.
Tips for Success With Any Trick
- Keep sessions short and fun. Just 5 to 10 minutes.
- Use positive reinforcement with praise and healthy treats.
- Be patient. Dogs, like kids, learn at different paces.
- Practice in quiet places with few distractions before trying tricks outside or around others.
- Celebrate all wins! Every small step is progress.
Final Thought
Teaching your dog unusual tricks isn’t just about showing off. It’s a fun way to bond, build trust, and include the whole family in caring for your furry friend. These creative tricks give your dog a mental workout and bring tons of joy and laughter into your home.
And who knows? Your clever pup might be the next canine internet sensation!
