Tibby's Tricky Thursday!

Hello Friends!

Before we get to my trick I have an urgent matter to discuss! I think that Owner Girl is turning into a dog! She has been making these barking noises and sniffing really loud. Plus she is starting to lose her human voice! I haven't seen her walking around on all fours or going potty outside yet, so I can't be sure! I sure hope she's not cuz then I'd have to share my toys and food with her!

Ok, now for the pawsome trick I know!

BELLY UP(Owner Girl photographic skills have really been lacking. Which only adds to my above theory!)

Here's what your owner should do:

1. As always get some yummy, fantastic, mouth watering treats!

2. Have your dog lay down.

3. If your dog knows how to roll over, have him do that but stop him when he gets to the "belly up" position. Give him a treat and say the command belly up!

4. If your dog doesn't know how to roll over then follow the steps for teaching him roll over but don't have him do a complete roll.

5. Once your dog is going into the belly up position without you keeping him from rolling over all the way or nudging him into the position, you can try giving him the "belly up" command only when he is laying down. It's probably a good idea to continue using helpful hand motions and treats at this point.

6. When your dog is doing "Belly Up" consistently you can phase out hand movements or switch to a simplified hand signal. Eventually you can also phase out the treats. (although there is no guarantee your dog will perform the trick without them!)

7. Remember to keep training sessions short and fun for your dog. If he is having a lot of trouble with something, don't get frustrated. Move on to a trick he knows well and revisit the new one at another time!

8. This is a great position for giving lots of belly rubs! If your dog likes to roll onto his back for belly scratches already you can use those opportunities to teach him this trick! When you are treating him to a nice belly rub, throw in a few "good belly up!"s and he will catch on in no time!

As always, these are just the steps that worked for me and Owner Girl. If they don't seem to be working for you and your dog, don't worry! There are many resources and professionals out there that can help you! Good Luck and happy training!