Golden Retrievers are renowned for their intelligence, friendliness, and loyalty, making them one of the most popular dog breeds. According to the American Kennel Club, they were the third most common breed in the U.S. in 2015. Their sharp minds thrive on engagement, and teaching them tricks is an excellent way to keep them happy and mentally stimulated. While basic commands like “sit,” “down,” and “stay” are fundamental, this guide explores 18 more advanced and entertaining tricks that will make your Golden the star of the neighborhood.
Getting Started with Trick Training
Before diving into advanced maneuvers, it’s crucial to establish basic obedience. If you’re new to dog training, consider enrolling in an obedience or puppy training class. These classes provide a structured environment for both you and your dog to learn essential commands and build a strong foundation for more complex tricks. Mastering basics like “sit,” “shake a paw,” and “fetch” will make teaching advanced behaviors much smoother.
For effective training, consider using clickers, which are popular tools that can significantly enhance the learning process. Regardless of the method, be prepared to use plenty of treats. Offer small rewards for completing stages of a trick and a larger reward for successful execution. This positive reinforcement helps solidify desired behaviors.
Here are 18 fun and unusual tricks to teach your Golden Retriever, presented in no particular order:
Advanced Tricks for Your Intelligent Companion
High Five
A natural progression from “shake a paw,” the “high five” is a crowd-pleaser.
- Have your dog sit.
- Hold a treat just out of reach and say “high five,” tapping the paw you want them to use.
- As they lift their paw, meet it with your open hand for the “high five.”
- Praise and reward immediately.
With consistent practice, your Golden will soon offer a high five on command.
Salute
A respectful trick that builds on the “give a paw” command.
- Ask your dog to sit.
- Command “paw.”
- Gently move their paw to their nose and say “salute,” followed by a treat and praise.
Alternatively, use a sticky note on their nose and reward them when they paw at it after the command.
Army Crawl
This trick is great exercise and adds a military flair.
- Have your dog lie down.
- Hold a treat close to their nose and slowly move backward, keeping the treat on the floor.
- As they inch forward, say “crawl.” Reward them after a foot or two.
Gradually increase the distance with each repetition. Ensure dogs with hip issues are exempt from this exercise.
Skateboard
An impressive trick requiring patience and confidence from your dog.
- Get your dog accustomed to a stationary skateboard (wedge the wheels).
- Reward them for placing paws on the board, gradually working up to all fours.
- Once comfortable, gently move the board a short distance, rewarding successes.
The goal is for your dog to eventually stand and move on the skateboard with confidence.
Play Piano
A noisy but entertaining trick for the musically inclined.
- Encourage your dog to approach the piano.
- Reward any interaction with the keyboard, or place treats on the keys.
- Reward each key press, gradually limiting treats as the trick becomes more natural.
Consider using a toy piano to avoid damaging your instrument.
Play Soccer
Turn your dog into a soccer star with this interactive trick.
- Introduce your dog to a ball large enough not to be swallowed.
- Reward any nudges or contact with the ball.
- Continue rewarding each movement, encouraging them to push the ball.
This trick may take several sessions to master.
Say Your Prayers
A cute and charming trick that requires mastering “sit” and “give a paw” first.
- Ask your dog to sit. Kneel in front of them and ask for a paw, placing it on your forearm.
- Ask for the other paw and drape it over your arm.
- Hold a treat in front of their face and lower it below your arm, saying “pray” as they bow their head.
Gradually increase the time they hold the “prayer” pose before receiving the treat.
Clean Up Your Toys
This practical trick combines name recognition and the “drop it” command.
- Designate a toy container.
- Ask your dog to retrieve specific toys by name.
- Have them bring the toy to the container and command “drop it.” Reward when the toy lands in the container.
Gradually increase the number of toys and reinforce the command “put your toys away.”
Sneeze
A quirky trick that relies on timing and positive reinforcement.
- Be ready with treats whenever your dog naturally sneezes.
- Offer a treat and praise immediately after the sneeze.
- Add a command word like “sneeze.”
You can attempt to induce a sneeze by gently tickling their nose with a tissue or feather duster.
Bounce a Ball
Develop your dog’s coordination and responsiveness with this trick.
- Encourage your dog to interact with a lightweight ball.
- Reward contact with the ball.
- Progress to placing the ball on their nose, rewarding comfort.
- Gently bounce the ball off their nose, rewarding any attempt to hit it back.
Get Me a Drink
A functional party trick that builds on “take it,” “bring it,” and “drop it.”
- Start with an empty plastic bottle. Have your dog “take it,” then “bring it,” and finally “drop it” near you.
- Reward each step.
- Gradually increase the distance and introduce the command “bring me a drink.”
Ensure the bottle is plastic to prevent injury.
Limp
An adorable trick that requires careful handling.
- Determine your dog’s dominant paw.
- On leash, gently lift the dominant paw slightly off the ground.
- Say “limp” and encourage a few steps. Reward with a treat.
Gradually reduce reliance on the leash, encouraging them to hold the leg up on their own. This trick is not suitable for older dogs or those with joint issues.
Sing
This trick encourages a natural vocalization.
- Reward your dog with praise and treats when they vocalize.
- Add a command word like “sing.”
Experiment with howling yourself or playing music to elicit the behavior.
Wave Goodbye
A sweet send-off for guests, building on the “shake paw” command.
- Ask for a paw, but raise your hand higher than usual.
- Reward your dog for reaching higher.
- Gradually increase the reach until they wave their paw over their head.
- Introduce the command “wave” or “say hello.”
Put the Laundry Away
A practical extension of the “clean up toys” trick.
- Use a laundry basket. Have your dog retrieve an item of clothing, bring it to you, and “drop it” into the basket.
- Reward successful placement.
- Gradually move the basket to your laundry area.
This trick requires distinguishing between toys and laundry.
Shame, Shame!
A trick that can be taught similarly to “salute.”
- Place a sticky note on your dog’s nose.
- Reward them when they paw at it to remove it.
- Add the command “shame on you.”
Practice the command without the sticky note once they consistently paw at it. Ensure the command word is not used for actual scolding.
Pull a Cart
An ambitious trick that may require some crafting.
- Use a body harness and a lightweight cart or wagon.
- Get your dog accustomed to the harness first.
- Attach a light, empty cart and gradually increase the load.
Cart training is best started when the dog is young. Respect your dog’s physical limitations.
Treat Flip and Catch
A fun, circus-style trick requiring patience.
- Have your dog sit and stay.
- Place a treat on their nose and say “hold it” or “wait.”
- Release them with “get it!” and reward if they catch the treat in mid-air.
If the treat drops, use the “leave it” command and try again. This reinforces catching the treat.
Conclusion
Teaching your Golden Retriever new tricks is a rewarding experience that strengthens your bond and keeps their intelligent minds engaged. Always prioritize your dog’s comfort and well-being, choosing tricks that are appropriate for their size and physical capabilities. Have fun showcasing your Golden’s new skills and enjoy the camaraderie that comes with having a well-trained and entertaining companion.
