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Large dogs bring unique charm and challenges to our lives. Their size, strength, and energy can be both endearing and demanding, making training an essential part of their care. Beyond the basic commands like "sit" and "stay," teaching your large dog specific tricks can improve their behavior, strengthen your bond, and even keep them safer in everyday situations. Here's a roundup of tricks and skills every large dog should learn, tailored to their needs and abilities.
1. Mastering the Basics: Sit, Stay, and Come
Before diving into advanced tricks, these three foundational commands are essential:
Sit: Helps manage your dog's behavior in public places and ensures they remain calm during mealtime or grooming.
Stay: Crucial for keeping your dog from bolting into unsafe situations.
Come: A lifesaver if your dog gets off-leash or finds themselves in danger.
Pro Tip: Use high-value treats to reinforce these commands and practice in different environments to ensure reliability.
2. Heel Walking: Keeping Walks Under Control
Large dogs are strong, and walking with an unruly giant can be daunting. Teaching them to "heel" ensures they walk calmly by your side instead of pulling you along.
Use a short leash and rewards to encourage them to stay close.
Practice in low-distraction areas before moving to busy streets or parks.
3. "Wait" Command for Doors and Cars
Large dogs have a habit of charging through doors or leaping out of vehicles, which can be dangerous. Teaching them to "wait" keeps them under control until you give the go-ahead.
Start at home by using doorways.
Gradually introduce car doors, ensuring they learn to stay until released.
4. "Leave It" for Dangerous Items
Whether it’s a dropped snack, a tempting shoe, or something hazardous on the ground, the "leave it" command is vital for large dogs who are strong enough to snatch and run.
Use treats to practice this command.
Gradually introduce real-world distractions for a reliable response.
5. Teaching Your Dog to Back Up
Large dogs can unintentionally knock over furniture—or people! Teaching them to "back up" is a handy trick for navigating tight spaces or moving out of the way.
Use a visual cue like stepping toward them or a verbal cue like "back up."
Reward small steps backward with treats and praise.
6. Calm Greetings to Prevent Jumping
Many large dogs love to greet people by jumping up, but this can be overwhelming or even dangerous. Train your dog to sit calmly when meeting someone.
Reinforce calm behavior with treats when guests arrive.
Discourage jumping by turning away until your dog sits.
7. Fetch for Mental and Physical Exercise
Fetch isn’t just for fun; it’s a great way to tire out your big pup while giving them mental stimulation.
Start with short throws and gradually increase distance.
Use durable, size-appropriate toys to prevent choking.
8. Carrying Items: Teach “Take It” and “Bring It”
Large dogs are perfect helpers! Teach them to carry light items like groceries or toys.
Use the command "take it" to pick up an object.
Follow with "bring it" to deliver it to you.
Fun Idea: Train your dog to carry their leash or even bring you a blanket during cozy movie nights!
9. "Place" Command for a Calm Resting Spot
Every large dog needs a dedicated resting space. Teaching them to go to their “place” helps create a calm environment, especially during mealtime or when guests visit.
Use a mat or bed as their "place."
Reward them for lying down and staying there until released.
10. Advanced Tricks for Confidence and Bonding
Once your large dog masters the essentials, why not try some advanced tricks?
Bow: A cute trick that doubles as a stretch for big dogs.
Spin: Great for burning energy in small spaces.
Shake: Always a crowd-pleaser, especially with kids!
Why Training is Essential for Large Dogs
Large breeds often have longer growth periods and boundless energy, which can lead to unintentional mischief. Proper training ensures they remain well-behaved and safe in various situations. Tricks like "wait," "heel," and "leave it" are particularly useful for navigating their strength and size.
Tips for Training Success
Consistency: Practice regularly to reinforce commands.
Patience: Big dogs may take time to master commands due to their size and energy.
Positive Reinforcement: Use treats, toys, and praise to motivate your dog.
Adaptation: Tailor tricks to your dog’s abilities and personality.
Make Training Fun and Rewarding
Training is not just about teaching obedience; it’s a chance to deepen your bond with your furry friend. Large dogs thrive on positive attention and structured activity, so make training sessions fun and rewarding.
Remember, a well-trained large dog isn’t just a joy to live with—they’re safer, healthier, and happier too!
Explore Our Products for Training Rewards
Looking for healthy treats to make training sessions even more effective? Addiction Pet Foods offers a range of wholesome options your dog will love. Browse our training treats here.
