5 Easy Dog Tricks That Actually Make Life Easier

When we think of dog tricks, we often picture cute little party pieces - roll over, shake a paw, that kind of thing. But did you know some tricks are genuinely useful in day-to-day life?

Here are five easy tricks you can teach your dog that aren’t just fun - they’re practical too!

1. Touch (Nose Targeting a Hand)

This is a brilliant little trick where your dog learns to boop their nose onto your hand. It’s great for getting their attention, guiding them away from distractions, or even helping with recall.

Use it when: You need your dog to focus on you in a busy park or when someone’s knocking at the door.

2. Go to Bed / Settle

Imagine being able to tell your dog to go lie down on their mat while you’re cooking, working from home, or entertaining guests. Bliss, right?

This one teaches calmness and helps your dog learn to relax on cue.

3. Spin (Left and Right)

Spin looks fancy, but it’s also a brilliant way to help your dog with balance and body awareness. Plus, it’s a great way to burn a bit of mental energy before a quiet evening in.

4. Sit Pretty (Beg)

This one’s as cute as it is effective. Sitting up on their hind legs works your dog’s core and helps with posture.

Not all dogs are built for it though, so check with your vet or dog physio if you’re unsure.

5. Pick Up and Put Away

Yes - your dog can learn to tidy up their toys! It’s a fab way to engage their brain and make clean-up time a team effort. Especially handy for families with kids (or lots of squeaky toys).

Fancy teaching these tricks properly?

I run a fun, friendly trick training course where we break it all down step-by-step. It’s perfect for beginners, and it’s a great way to bond with your dog while giving them a mental workout. [Find out more here].