Treat Your Pup To These Fun Fall Tricks!

The air is cooling, the leaves are changing, and it’s finally comfortable to spend real time training outside again. Fall is the perfect season to teach your dog a new trick or two, and dogs can learn at any age, so it doesn’t matter whether you have a puppy or a seasoned senior. Grab some treats and let’s spice up your training sessions.

Before You Start: Training Basics

Keep sessions short (five to ten minutes), upbeat, and reward-based. Use small, soft treats your dog loves, train before meals when they’re motivated, and always end on a success. Patience and consistency beat long, frustrating sessions every time.

1. “Watch Me” (Focus)

This one builds the attention every other trick relies on. Hold a treat near your eyes, say “watch me,” and reward the instant your dog makes eye contact. Over time they’ll learn to check in with you on cue, incredibly useful on walks and around distractions.

2. “Shake” (Give Paw)

A crowd-pleaser. With your dog sitting, hold a treat in a closed hand near their paw. Most dogs will paw at your hand to get it, the moment they lift their paw, say “shake,” take the paw, and reward. Repeat until the word alone gets the paw.

3. “Spin”

Fun and great for keeping your dog limber. With a treat at their nose, slowly lure them in a circle. As they follow the treat around, say “spin,” and reward when they complete the turn. Soon you’ll be able to fade the lure and just use the word and a hand signal.

Keep Training Year-Round

Trick training isn’t just cute, it’s mental exercise that tires your dog out, builds confidence, and deepens your bond. When the Arizona heat returns, these short sessions are a perfect way to keep your dog engaged indoors.

Dog Training FAQ

Can I teach an older dog new tricks?

Absolutely, the old saying is a myth. Dogs learn at any age with patience and positive, reward-based training. Older dogs may just need a little more repetition.

How long should a training session be?

Short and sweet, five to ten minutes, once or twice a day. Dogs learn better in frequent short bursts than in one long session.

What treats are best for training?

Small, soft, low-calorie treats your dog is excited about. Because you’ll use a lot, keep them tiny and account for them in your dog’s daily food.

Want to keep your dog mentally and physically engaged even on your busy days? Our insured, bonded team offers dog walking and enrichment visits across Anthem, Scottsdale, and North Phoenix.