Showing off your pup’s smarts is one of the greatest joys of being a dog owner, and there’s no better way to do that than by teaching them a few hilariously cute tricks! Sure, every dog should know the basics like sit, stay, and come, but once you’ve covered those, it’s time to have some fun with tricks that are both funny and adorable.
You don’t need a circus-ready canine to teach these tricks. Whether your dog is a curious puppy, an older dog who loves a challenge, or anything in between, these seven adorable and hilarious dog tricks are perfect for any breed, size, or age.
Best of all, they’re safe, easy to teach, and guaranteed to bring smiles every time your dog (or you) performs them.
1. The “Play Dead” Trick (“Bang!”)
Nothing gets laughs faster than a dog dramatically flopping onto the floor after you say “Bang!” and point your fingers like a pretend gun. It’s over-the-top, adorable, and one of the easiest tricks to teach—especially if your dog already knows some basic commands.
How to teach it:
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Start with your dog in a down position.
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Hold a treat near their nose and slowly move it toward their shoulder.
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Your dog should roll onto their side to follow the treat.
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As soon as they roll over, praise and reward them.
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Repeat several times until they associate the action with the treat.
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Once they’ve mastered the motion, add a verbal cue such as “Bang!” or “Play dead!” along with the hand gesture.
Training tip: Keep training sessions short and always end on a positive note—ideally when your dog gets something right. Dogs learn best when training is fun, not when they’re tired or frustrated.
2. Shake Hands (or “Paw”)
The classic “shake” trick never goes out of style. It’s simple, polite, and irresistibly cute—especially when your dog starts offering their paw before you even ask!
How to teach it:
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Have your dog sit in front of you.
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Hold a treat in your hand, then close your fist so your dog can smell it but not grab it.
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Most dogs will instinctively paw at your hand to get the treat. As soon as they do, say “Good paw!” and open your hand to reward them.
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Repeat several times, then add your verbal cue (“Shake” or “Paw”) right before they lift their paw.
Why it works: Dogs love using their paws, and this trick channels that natural instinct in a fun way.
Pro tip: Once your dog has mastered “shake,” teach them to offer the other paw using a different cue—it’s the perfect two-for-one trick.
3. Spin in a Circle
Few things are cuter than watching a dog twirl happily in a circle on command. The “spin” trick is not only funny but also a great form of physical and mental exercise to keep your dog agile.
How to teach it:
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Start with your dog standing in front of you.
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Hold a treat near their nose and move your hand in a slow circular motion.
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As they follow the treat, they’ll naturally spin in a circle.
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When they complete the turn, praise and reward them.
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Practice several times, then introduce the verbal cue “Spin” just before moving your hand.
Advanced version: Teach your dog to spin both directions using different cues—for example, “Spin” for clockwise and “Twirl” for counterclockwise.
Bonus: This trick is excellent for rainy days when you can’t go outside to help your dog burn off extra energy.
4. Peek-a-Boo (Hide Between Your Legs)
Peek-a-boo is always a crowd-pleaser, especially when it involves a dog coming around behind you and poking their head out from between your legs. It’s absolutely adorable and surprisingly easy to teach.
How to teach it:
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Stand with your legs slightly apart.
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Hold a treat in your hand and call your dog to come behind you.
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Use the treat to lure them forward between your legs.
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When their head pops out in front, say your cue (“Peek-a-boo!” or “Where’s [dog’s name]?”) and give them the treat.
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Repeat until they can perform the trick without a lure.
Training tip: For even more fun, teach your dog to hold the “peek-a-boo” position for a photo—it’s guaranteed to melt hearts.
5. Say “Cheese!” (Smile on Command)
Yes, dogs can actually be taught to “smile”! While they don’t use facial muscles the same way humans do, you can encourage your dog to lift their lips into a goofy grin that looks like a happy smile.
How to teach it:
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Watch for times when your dog naturally “smiles”—for example, when panting after playing.
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Click (if you use a clicker) or use verbal praise whenever they do it, then reward them with a treat.
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Once they start to associate the action with the reward, add your cue (“Cheese!” or “Smile!”).
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With consistency, your dog will eventually do it on command.
Pro tip: Use this trick for cute photos! Combine it with commands like “Sit” or “Stay” for the perfect holiday card shot.
6. Hide and Seek
Hide and seek isn’t just a kids’ game—it’s also a fantastic way to exercise your dog’s brain and reinforce recall commands. It’s a fun, interactive game that strengthens your bond and keeps your dog engaged.
How to play:
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Have your dog sit and stay, then find a simple hiding spot (like behind a door).
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Call your dog’s name once and let them find you.
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When they do, praise and reward them generously.
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Gradually make your hiding spots more challenging as your dog gets better.
Why it’s great: This game builds trust, reinforces commands like “Stay” and “Come,” and lets your dog use their powerful sense of smell.
Bonus variation: Try hiding a toy or treat instead of yourself to help your dog develop scent-tracking skills.
7. The “Take a Bow” Trick
Few tricks are as charming as when a dog lowers their front half to the ground while keeping their back end up—it’s a perfect “ta-da!” moment to end a performance or training session.
How to teach it:
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Start with your dog standing.
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Hold a treat near their nose and slowly lower it toward their front paws.
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As they lower their front legs, keep the treat close to the ground so they don’t lie down completely.
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When they reach the bow position, say your cue (“Take a bow” or “Curtsey”) and reward them.
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Repeat until they can perform the trick without a treat lure.
Training tip: Patience is key. Many dogs confuse this trick with “Down,” so use gentle encouragement and clear cues.
Why Teaching Tricks Is Important
Teaching your dog tricks isn’t just about laughter—it has real benefits:
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Bonding: Training strengthens the relationship between you and your dog.
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Focus: It helps your dog learn to listen and pay attention.
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Mental stimulation: Tricks challenge your dog’s brain, keeping them sharp and happy.
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Confidence: Dogs love learning new skills and gaining praise for their success.
Training Should Always Be Positive
Always keep training sessions positive and rewarding. Use treats, praise, or playtime as motivators, and keep sessions short and upbeat. Never punish your dog for not getting a trick right away—patience and consistency always lead to better results.
Helpful Training Tips
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Use positive reinforcement: Reward good behavior immediately so your dog makes the connection.
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Be consistent: Use the same cues, tones, and gestures each time.
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Keep sessions short: 5–10 minutes per session is ideal.
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Start in a quiet space: Minimize distractions at first, then gradually increase them.
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End on a win: Always finish training when your dog succeeds—this keeps them excited to train again.
Final Thoughts
Teaching your dog cute and funny tricks is one of the most rewarding parts of being a pet owner. It’s not about perfection—it’s about connection, laughter, and shared fun. So grab some treats, set aside a few minutes each day, and start training.
With patience, consistency, and plenty of love, your dog will soon master these hilariously cute tricks and steal hearts everywhere they go.
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