"Giving your furry mate the lowdown on vital commands is fair dinkum crucial for a harmonious coexistence and keeping them out of strife," shares Claire, a bonza dog training expert. "In this guide, we'll be delving into two ripper commands: sit and roll over. Get set for a top-notch journey into effective dog training!""
Rolling over is a delightful trick that adds a fun element to your dog's repertoire. Follow these steps:
Start by teaching the "down" position
Hold a treat close to your dog's nose and lower it to the ground, leading them into a lying down position. Use the command "down" while they are in this position and reward them with a treat.
Hold a treat above their head and move it to one side
With your dog in the "down" position, take a treat and lift it above their head. Slowly move the treat to one side, encouraging them to roll onto their back. Use a specific command like "roll" or "turn" during this movement.
When they roll over, say the command
As your dog completes the roll, immediately say the chosen command ("roll" or "turn") in a firm but gentle tone. This associates the action with the verbal cue.
Reward them and offer praise and affection
As soon as your dog successfully rolls over, provide immediate positive reinforcement. Offer verbal praise, petting, and, most importantly, a treat. Make this a joyful experience for your dog.
Practice extensively, gradually eliminating treats
Repeat the rolling over exercise in short sessions. Over time, reduce the frequency of treats but continue with verbal praise and affection. The goal is for your dog to perform the trick reliably even without a treat.
