Introduction
Teaching your dog to “play dead” is a classic trick that never fails to impress. It’s not just a fun party trick; it’s also a great way to bond with your furry friend and enhance their mental stimulation. As a professional dog trainer for over three decades, I’ve found that this trick is a wonderful introduction to more advanced training techniques. Plus, it’s always a crowd-pleaser when your pup dramatically “dies” on command!
Preparation
Before we dive into the training process, let’s gather everything we need:
- High-value treats (I prefer small pieces of cooked chicken or cheese)
- A quiet room free from distractions
- A soft mat or carpeted area for your dog’s comfort
It’s also crucial to observe which side your dog prefers to lie on. This will make the training process much smoother. For instance, my Border Collie, Neirah, always favors her right side, so that’s the direction I used when teaching her this trick.
Ensure your dog has already mastered the “sit” and “down” commands. These are foundational skills that will make learning to play dead much easier.
Training Steps
Lure into Position
Start by asking your dog to lie down. Once they’re in position, it’s time to introduce the lure:
- Hold a treat close to your dog’s nose, then slowly move it towards their shoulder and out to the side.
- As your dog follows the treat, they should naturally roll onto their side.
- The moment they’re in the “dead” position, mark the behavior with a cheerful “Yes!” or a click if you’re using a clicker, and immediately reward with the treat.
Repeat this process several times until your dog is quickly following the lure into position. Remember, patience is key here. As I always tell my students, “Every dog learns at their own pace. The key is to make it fun and rewarding.”
Add the Cue
Once your dog is consistently lying on their side, it’s time to introduce the verbal cue and hand signal:
- Choose a verbal cue like “Bang!” or “Play dead!”
- Decide on a hand signal – I personally use a finger gun, but feel free to get creative!
- Say your chosen cue and perform the hand signal just before luring your dog into position.
Repeat this sequence at least 5-10 times to build a strong association between the cue and the action.
Remove the Lure
Now comes the exciting part – phasing out the treat lure:
- Give the cue and use an empty hand to guide your dog into position.
- Once they’re “dead,” reward them with a treat from your other hand.
- Gradually make your guiding motion smaller until you can simply give the cue without any hand guidance.
This step might take some time, so don’t get discouraged if progress seems slow. As I often say, “Training is a journey, not a destination.”
Increase Difficulty
Once your dog has mastered the basics, it’s time to up the ante:
- Practice the trick with you standing instead of sitting or kneeling.
- Ask your dog to “play dead” from a sitting position rather than lying down.
- Gradually increase the distance between you and your dog when giving the cue.
Remember to always end training sessions on a positive note. If your dog is struggling with a more difficult version, go back to an easier one to finish up.
Advanced Training
For those overachievers out there (both human and canine), here are some advanced variations to try:
- Teach your dog to play dead from a standing position.
- Work on having your dog “die” while in motion – this is always a showstopper!
- For the ultimate challenge, see if you can get your pup to play dead while running towards you.
I’ll never forget the day my Australian Shepherd, Brooks, mastered the running play dead. It was during a demonstration at a local fair, and the crowd went wild!
FAQs
How long will it take my dog to learn to play dead?
Every dog learns at a different pace. Some may pick it up in a few sessions, while others might take a few weeks. Consistency and patience are key.
Is this trick safe for all dogs?
Generally, yes. However, if your dog has any joint issues or mobility problems, consult with your vet before teaching this trick.
How do I keep my dog engaged during training?
Keep sessions short (5-10 minutes), use high-value treats, and always end on a positive note. Make it fun!
Can older dogs learn this trick?
Absolutely! The saying “you can’t teach an old dog new tricks” is a myth. Older dogs can certainly learn new skills with patience and positive reinforcement.
What if my dog won’t stay “dead” for more than a second?
Start by rewarding even brief moments of staying in position. Gradually increase the duration before giving the treat.
Can I use a clicker for this trick?
Definitely! A clicker can be a great tool for marking the exact moment your dog is in the correct position.