How To Train A Dog To Smile
This tutorial is part of The Ultimate List Of Dog Trick Ideas which contains 99 other tricks like this!
A dog that smiles is funny and incredibly cute. Some offer a submissive smile naturally which is easy to reinforce. The important thing about this trick is to recognize your dog’s individual smile and shape it with reinforcement.
- This is a trick to teach as an opportunist. Carry some treats and reinforce your dog each time he shows his teeth when excited.
- Some lift their lips obviously and others just show their bottom teeth. Choose your dog’s nicest smile and reinforce it as often as possible.
- Add the command word to the behavior and although it may take a few weeks of opportunity based training your dog will soon be smiling on command.
Top tip; Do not rush this trick, you will need to reinforce the natural behavior when it occurs for the best result.
Dog trainers love this trick because it can be a challenge to teach, and dog trainers love a challenge.
