Schwarzer Schäferhund beim Hundetraining hört auf das Sitz-Kommando.

How to teach your dog the "bang" trick

Dog tricks challenge your four-legged friend mentally and are fun! A classic among dog tricks is "Peng":

At the command "bang", the dog turns on its side and plays dead. This trick always puts a smile on people's faces and brings joy to the four-legged friends.

Take the opportunity to combine training with fun - in this article by @die_appenshepherds you will learn how to teach your dog this popular trick.

What you need for the trick

Treats
Optional: clicker
Your dog should be familiar with the basic commands "Sit", "Down" and "Stay".

The command "sit" is important for the "play dead", as it is the starting position. Ideally, your dog should already be able to lie relaxed on his belly on command.

"Play dead" - this is how it works

You can teach your dog "bang" or "play dead" in 4 learning steps. The training sessions should not last longer than 15 minutes so as not to overtax your pet. You can have several sessions a day without hesitation - just be patient. You will notice when your furry friend does not feel like training. Repetition makes perfect.

Step 1

Put the dog in the down position. He should learn to follow your hand with his snout.
Now take a treat in your hand and bring it to the side behind the dog's head - over the shoulder towards the ribs.

If he follows your hand and lies on his side, you should reward him and confirm with a click.

Step 2

Now lead with your hand (without treats) towards the shoulder and you can also
and you can also use a command like "bang" or another word.

As soon as the dog is lying down, give him the treat with the other hand so that he stays lying down for a while.

Step 3

Many owners also use a visual signal (for example by forming a gun with their hand) - the advantage is that it makes learning easier:
So now point your finger at the dog and say "Bang".

If he lies down on his side, reward him immediately and give him a hand signal to stay there for a while.

Step 4

Once your dog has understood what you want him to do, you can increase the distance, bring him to lie down with the word "bang".
and practise "playing dead" by keeping him lying down for a longer period of time.

Reward your dog with a treat and always end the exercise with a final command.

Have fun training together!

This might also interest you

Encourage and challenge dogs: "Take off your sock" trick

Halterin macht Sport mit ihrem Hund im Wald

Fit with dog:
5 sport exercises for the walk