Why Trick Training Is So Important for Dogs
I've been training dogs for more than a decade, and tricks have always been a huge part of my life. I first started training my own dog, Hero, and eventually began performing with my dogs around North America. I also competed on America's Got Talent with my dogs, where we made it all the way to the Top 5.
Over the years, I've learned that trick training is about so much more than teaching a dog a cute behavior. It's a fun way to provide mental stimulation, build confidence, and strengthen the bond between you and your dog.
That's also why I created Puppr. Puppr is a dog training app designed to make training simple, accessible, and fun for everyone. Whether you're bringing home a new puppy or looking for new things to teach your adult dog, Puppr gives you step-by-step lessons that you can work on together.
You don't need to be an experienced dog trainer to get started. All you really need is a few minutes, some treats, and a willingness to have fun with your dog.
Dogs Need to Use Their Brains
We often think about exercising our dogs by taking them for walks, playing fetch, or letting them run. Physical exercise is important, but dogs also need to use their brains.
Learning a new trick makes a dog think. They have to figure out what we're asking, try different behaviors, and learn how to earn a reward.
Even spending just a few minutes teaching a new trick can give your dog a great mental workout.
Mental Stimulation Can Help Dogs Settle
A dog who is constantly looking for something to do can sometimes become bored, restless, or destructive.
Trick training gives them a job.
It can be as simple as teaching your dog to touch your hand with their nose, spin in a circle, wave, or put their paws on an object. The trick itself doesn't have to be complicated. What matters is that your dog is thinking and learning.
And one of my favorite things about trick training is that you don't need a lot of space or equipment. You can practice in your living room, backyard, or even while traveling.
Keep Training Fun
Training shouldn't feel like a chore.
I recommend keeping sessions short and ending while your dog is still having fun. Even 5–10 minutes of focused training can make a difference.
Use rewards your dog loves, celebrate the little successes, and don't be afraid to make mistakes. Training is about learning together.
For me, trick training has always been about much more than teaching dogs to perform. It's about creating a stronger relationship, giving them something to think about, and helping them become confident, happy, and balanced dogs.
So grab some treats, pick a simple trick, and start training. You might be surprised by just how much your dog enjoys having a job! 🐾
