The 5 Easiest Tricks to Teach Your Pug (And How to Do It!)

Pugs are known for their goofy personalities and eagerness to please—making them surprisingly trainable when treats and praise are involved. Whether you're a first-time pug parent or just looking to add some flair to your pup's routine, these five tricks are fun, simple, and perfect for pugs of all ages.

🎯 1. Sit

Why it’s great:

“Sit” is the foundation for nearly all other commands. It’s a great way to get your pug’s attention and teach impulse control.

How to teach it:

1. Hold a treat just above your pug’s nose.
2. Slowly move it back over their head toward their tail.
3. As their head follows the treat, their rear will naturally lower.
4. The moment they sit, say “Sit” and reward them with the treat and praise.

🔁 Repeat 3–5 times per session, and keep it short and fun.

🐾 2. Paw (Shake)

Why it’s great:

It’s adorable, quick to teach, and great for social interactions—kids love it!

How to teach it:

1. Ask your pug to “Sit.”
2. Gently lift one of their front paws while saying “Paw” or “Shake.”
3. Reward and praise the moment their paw is in your hand.
4. Eventually, wait for them to lift it on their own.

💡 Tip: Many pugs are touch-sensitive, so be gentle and patient during early attempts.

🌀 3. Spin

Why it’s great:

A crowd-pleaser that uses your pug’s natural enthusiasm and desire to follow food.

How to teach it:

1. Hold a treat in front of your pug’s nose.
2. Move your hand in a slow circle just above the ground.
3. As your pug follows the treat in a full circle, say “Spin” and reward.

🔄 Add a verbal cue once they consistently follow the motion.

🛏 4. Go to Bed (Place)

Why it’s great:

Helps with calm behavior during mealtimes or when guests arrive. Also perfect for crate or mat training.

How to teach it:

1. Stand near your pug’s bed or mat with a treat.
2. Say “Bed” or “Place” and toss the treat onto the mat.
3. When your pug steps onto the mat, reward and praise.
4. Add duration by saying “Stay” and rewarding for a few seconds of calm behavior.

📍 Bonus: Combine this with “Stay” for extra obedience points!

🙌 5. High Five

Why it’s great:

A playful extension of “Paw” that gets big reactions.

How to teach it:

1. Ask for “Paw” but raise your hand a little higher, palm facing your pug.
2. When they lift their paw toward your hand, say “High five!” and reward.
3. Reward attempts, even if their paw doesn’t hit your hand at first.

📸 It’s a great trick for photos!

🧠 Final Tips for Training Your Pug

• Keep sessions short (5–10 minutes)
• Always use positive reinforcement
• Avoid harsh corrections—pugs are sensitive and thrive on praise
• Be patient! Pugs can be stubborn but are food-motivated

🎓 Ready for More?

Stay tuned to ClubPug.com for more training tips, health advice, and pug-friendly product guides. Your little snorter is smarter than you think!