365 Days of Training: Tricks & Treats

Sharpen your trick training skills in time for Halloween

With Halloween just around the corner, how will your dog react with all the little ghosts and goblins coming to the door?

Some pets may need to be put away to ease their stress and excitement, but others may be able to join in on the fun, dress up in costumes and do their own version of “tricks for treats”. 

If your pets tend to bolt for the door, it’s a good idea to keep them on a leash when opening it, and to keep in mind that some adults and children are scared of dogs.  Always ask the guardian or read the situation appropriately before letting your pets interact with the children.

It is possible to have a positive experience with children enjoying a few tricks from our furry friends when they come to the door, but know when your pet needs a break, too.  There is still time to have a trick sequence ready for a quick performance, and now is the time to start training for your routine. If you will be performing the tricks in costume, practice in costume too.

Start with tricks you know like sit, down, shake a paw, spin, play dead, or roll over.   Start putting three or four of those trick behaviours together to perform a sequence.

I like to use is a “sit” to “bang”, “play dead”, “you’re alive”, “roll over”, “jump for joy” or “jump into my arms.” Then a wave goodbye is always fun too. Treat your dog as you go to keep them motivated if you need to, but give them a jackpot of treats at the end.

Read your audience’s body language as well as your pet’s.

All the excitement and mental stimulation can tire your pet quickly. Take lots of breaks and know when to call it a night.

SAVE YOUR PUMPKINS!

Pumpkin is great for digestion, has a long list of vitamins and nutrients, and most importantly is high in fibre. You can add cooked puréed pumpkin to your dog’s regular diet, or use it as an ingredient for homemade dog biscuits. Cats like them too! Check out the recipes in the treats section.

SKILL BUILDING