Are you looking for a fun way to bond with your dog? Teaching them a trick can be a fun way to not only try something new but also add enrichment to their lives. Common tricks are Paw, Spin, and Roll Over. Today I will tell you how to teach roll over.
Master the Down Cue
This cue is crucial as your dog needs to be in the down/ lay position to roll over.
Start with your dog in a sit cue
Start with a treat at their nose and slowly bring the hand with the treat in it down and out, Forming an “L” shape. Make sure your dog’s nose is following your treat hand.
As soon as your dog’s chest is on the ground, Mark (Yes) and reward.
Release word (Break) and Repeat.
Practice rolling the dog on the side
Now that we have the Down cue mastered let’s move to the motion of rolling over.
Start with your dog laying down with a hip out to one side.
Then slowly begin rolling them on their back and returning them to their side.
Repeat a few times making sure your dog is comfortable
No words or markers are needed here, just a calm tone and body language.
Practice rolling on back
Once your dog gets comfortable rolling on their side, start rolling them completely on their back and to the other side. Repeat a few times then give them a break.
Put into motion – Teach Roll Over
Let’s put it in motion, start by asking your dog to go down.
Then begin rolling them to their other side and return them to the opposite side down.
Mark (Yes) and reward
Repeat a few times in short sessions
If you are struggling with your dog and this trick seems uncomfortable for them, I would recommend trying a similar trick such as paw or spin.
