Top 10 Clever Tricks You Can Teach Your Corgi Today

Welcome to the wonderful world of Corgi training! Known for their intelligence and boundless energy, Corgis are among the most trainable dog breeds. These compact yet sturdy dogs are not only charming but also highly responsive to commands. Their eagerness to please makes them perfect candidates for learning new tricks. By teaching your Corgi some clever tricks, you’ll not only strengthen your bond with your furry friend but also provide mental and physical stimulation that can enhance their overall well-being.

1. Sit

The “Sit” command is one of the first and most fundamental commands every Corgi should learn. It sets the foundation for more complex tricks and ensures your dog listens and follows commands.

Step-by-Step Instructions: Hold a treat close to your Corgi’s nose, allowing it to smell the treat but not eat it. Slowly move the treat upwards and back towards the dog’s head. As the Corgi follows the treat, its bottom will naturally lower into a sitting position. Once the Corgi sits, immediately say “Good sit!” and give the treat.
Tips for Successful Training: Keep training sessions short (5-10 minutes) and frequent (3-4 times a day). Use high-value treats to maintain your Corgi’s interest.
Common Challenges: Some Corgis may try to jump instead of sit. If this happens, gently guide your dog into the correct position and reward it when it sits correctly.
Benefits: The “Sit” command is useful for controlling your dog in public spaces and can prevent jumping up on people.

2. Roll Over

The “Roll over” trick is fun and impressive. It requires a bit more coordination but is highly rewarding once mastered.

Step-by-Step Instructions: Start by having your Corgi lie down. Hold a treat near its nose and slowly move it towards the opposite side of its body. As your Corgi follows the treat, it will roll over. Once it completes the roll, praise it and offer the treat as a reward.
Tips for Successful Training: Practice this trick in a quiet area free of distractions. Reward each small step your Corgi takes towards mastering the full roll.
Common Challenges: Some Corgis might resist rolling over at first. Patience and gentle encouragement are key.
Benefits: This trick is excellent for bonding and provides mental stimulation.

3. Shake Hands

The “Shake hands” trick is a classic and a great way to encourage interaction with your Corgi.

Step-by-Step Instructions: While your Corgi is sitting, hold a treat in front of its nose and then move it up towards its paw. When your Corgi lifts its paw, gently shake it and say “Good shake!” followed by giving the treat.
Tips for Successful Training: Make sure your Corgi understands the “sit” command before attempting this trick. Gradually reduce the use of treats as a reward to encourage voluntary participation.
Common Challenges: Some Corgis might be hesitant to lift their paws. Encourage them with gentle guidance and lots of praise.
Benefits: This trick promotes interaction and socialization, which is especially important for shy or reserved Corgis.

4. Play Dead

The “Play dead” trick is both entertaining and a great way to teach your Corgi to stay calm in various situations.

Step-by-Step Instructions: Have your Corgi lie down. Then, gently push its shoulder down and say “Play dead.” Once your Corgi lies still, reward it with a treat and lots of praise.
Tips for Successful Training: Practice this trick in a quiet, controlled environment. Reinforce the behavior with consistent verbal cues.
Common Challenges: Some Corgis might get excited and want to get up. Encourage them to stay calm by offering additional treats and praise.
Benefits: This trick helps improve your Corgi’s obedience and can be useful in teaching it to remain calm during vet visits or other stressful situations.

5. Fetch

The “Fetch” game is a traditional favorite that combines physical exercise with mental stimulation.

Step-by-Step Instructions: Toss a toy a short distance away and encourage your Corgi to fetch it. Once your Corgi brings the toy back, reward it with a treat and lots of praise. Repeat the process, gradually increasing the distance.
Tips for Successful Training: Choose toys that are durable and safe for your Corgi. Encourage your Corgi verbally throughout the game.
Common Challenges: Some Corgis might not be interested in fetching initially. Introduce the game gradually and make it a fun experience.
Benefits: Fetching provides excellent cardiovascular exercise and helps develop your Corgi’s retrieval instincts.

6. Spin

The “Spin” trick is a fun and easy trick that adds variety to your training sessions.

Step-by-Step Instructions: Stand facing your Corgi and hold a treat near its nose. Move the treat in a circular motion around its head, guiding it to follow the treat with its nose. Praise and reward your Corgi when it completes a full circle.
Tips for Successful Training: Practice this trick in a quiet area to minimize distractions. Be patient and offer lots of encouragement.
Common Challenges: Some Corgis might get dizzy or confused. Take breaks if necessary and resume training when your Corgi is ready.
Benefits: This trick enhances your Corgi’s coordination and can be a fun way to burn off excess energy.

7. High Five

The “High five” trick is a great way to engage your Corgi and teach it to interact positively with others.

Step-by-Step Instructions: Begin by having your Corgi sit. Hold a treat in your hand and raise it above its head. When your Corgi reaches up with its paw, touch it gently and say “Good high five!” followed by giving the treat.
Tips for Successful Training: Make sure your Corgi understands the “sit” command before introducing the “high five.” Gradually phase out the use of treats as a reward.
Common Challenges: Some Corgis might not understand the concept of reaching up. Guide their paw gently and provide lots of positive reinforcement.
Benefits: This trick encourages positive interactions and can be a fun party trick.

8. Jump Through Hoops

The “Jump through hoops” trick is a fun and challenging trick that improves your Corgi’s agility.

Step-by-Step Instructions: Set up a hoop on the ground. Encourage your Corgi to walk through it. Once it does, reward it with a treat. Gradually raise the hoop slightly higher and repeat the process until your Corgi can jump through the hoop.
Tips for Successful Training: Start with a low hoop and gradually increase the height. Use treats to motivate your Corgi and provide plenty of praise.
Common Challenges: Some Corgis might be hesitant to jump. Encourage them gently and ensure they feel safe and comfortable.
Benefits: This trick improves your Corgi’s agility and coordination.

9. Hide and Seek

The “Hide and seek” game is a fantastic way to stimulate your Corgi’s natural hunting instincts.

Step-by-Step Instructions: Hide behind a door or in another room while holding a treat. Call your Corgi’s name and encourage it to find you. Once it finds you, reward it with the treat and lots of praise.
Tips for Successful Training: Start with simple hiding spots and gradually increase the complexity of the game. Ensure the game remains fun and exciting for your Corgi.
Common Challenges: Some Corgis might become frustrated if they can’t find you quickly. Stay patient and continue playing even if it takes longer than expected.
Benefits: This game stimulates your Corgi’s mind and helps build confidence.

10. Beg

The “Beg” trick is a fun way to get your Corgi to entertain you and others.

Step-by-Step Instructions: Stand in front of your Corgi and hold a treat just above its head. Encourage your Corgi to stand on its hind legs to reach the treat. Once it stands, say “Good beg!” and give the treat.
Tips for Successful Training: Ensure your Corgi is comfortable standing on its hind legs. Provide lots of encouragement and rewards.
Common Challenges: Some Corgis might be uncomfortable standing on their hind legs. Build their confidence gradually and ensure they are comfortable with the position.
Benefits: This trick provides excellent mental stimulation and can be a fun party trick.

Maintaining a Positive Training Environment

Training your Corgi should always be a positive experience. Create a comfortable, distraction-free environment for training sessions. Use treats and praise generously to reinforce good behavior. Remember, patience and consistency are key. Celebrate small victories and avoid getting frustrated if progress is slow. With time and dedication, your Corgi will learn these tricks and more, enriching both its life and yours.