86 Fun Dog Training Games: Easy Steps to Teach Your Puppy Essential Skills

Want to turn your furry friend into a clever companion? Discover 86 science-backed dog training games from top experts Arthur J. Haggerty and Carol Lee Benjamin. These easy methods help puppies learn life skills, fun tricks, and even emergency responses!

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Part 1: Basic Training – Building Trust

Goal: Teach essential commands using positive reinforcement.

Sit & Down

1. Hold a treat near your dog’s nose, slowly lift it upward saying “Sit”.
2. Reward immediately when their bottom touches the floor.
3. Gradually replace hand signals with voice commands.

Stay & Come

• Practice at doorways: Close door if puppy lunges, say “Wait”.
• Use long leash outdoors: Gently pull while saying “Come”.
• Always reward successful responses.

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Part 2: Fun Tricks for Smart Pups

Goal: Boost your dog’s mental stimulation and social appeal.

Play Dead & Roll Over

1. Say “Bang!” while gently rolling your dog sideways.
2. Use treats to guide rolling motions.
3. Add dramatic pauses for showstopping effects.

Fetch Master

• Start with familiar items like old shoes.
• Use excited praise when they retrieve objects.
• Gradually introduce specific retrieval tasks.

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Part 3: Helpful Service Skills

Goal: Train useful household assistants through dog training games.

Light Switches & Phones

• Guide paws to touch wall switches saying “Lights”.
• Reward nose-touches to ringing phones.

Emergency Alerts

• Create mock scenarios (e.g., pretend falling).
• Reward alert behaviors like barking or fetching help.

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Part 4: Advanced Challenges

Pro Tip: Adjust difficulty based on your dog’s breed and age.

Agility Training

• Start with ground-level jumps.
• Gradually increase obstacle heights.
• Perfect for energetic breeds like Border Collies.

Shopping Helpers

• Attach lightweight baskets to harnesses.
• Practice carrying empty containers first.
• Reward successful deliveries.

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5 Golden Rules for Dog Training Games

1. Use treats/praise – Never punishment.
2. Keep sessions under 10 minutes.
3. Match activities to your dog’s physical limits.
4. Always prioritize safety.
5. Make it fun for both of you!

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Final Tip: Consistency is key in dog training games. Spend 10 minutes daily, and you’ll be amazed at what your smart pup can learn! Remember – every dog has potential waiting to be unlocked through positive, playful training.