The Coolest Schnauzer Tricks You Need to See

Schnauzers are a breed of dog known for their distinctive beards and eyebrows, but they also have a reputation for being highly intelligent and trainable. These dogs come in three sizes: Standard, Miniature, and Giant, each with its own set of characteristics, but all sharing a common trait – their exceptional ability to learn new things. Their natural curiosity and eagerness to please make them ideal candidates for learning various tricks. Whether you’re a seasoned dog owner or a first-time pet parent, Schnauzers can surprise you with their capabilities.

Top 10 Unique Tricks Your Schnauzer Can Learn

1. Shake Hands (Paw)

Teaching your Schnauzer to shake hands is a classic trick that showcases their obedience and social skills. It’s an easy trick to teach and can be done almost anywhere, making it perfect for impressing friends and family.

• Step 1: Start by sitting next to your Schnauzer and holding a treat close to their nose.
• Step 2: Move the treat slightly above their head so they raise their paw naturally.
• Step 3: As soon as they lift their paw, say “shake” and give them the treat.
• Step 4: Repeat this process several times, gradually reducing the amount of encouragement needed until they shake on command.

Real-life example: Charlie, a Miniature Schnauzer, mastered this trick in just a week, and now he loves to greet visitors with a friendly handshake.

2. Play Dead

This trick involves your Schnauzer lying down, rolling onto their side, and remaining still, creating the illusion of being dead. It’s a fun trick that can amuse both children and adults.

• Step 1: Teach your Schnauzer to lie down on command.
• Step 2: Once they are lying down, gently guide them to roll onto their side.
• Step 3: Say “play dead” and reward them with a treat.
• Step 4: Practice the command in various environments to ensure they understand.

Real-life example: Max, a Standard Schnauzer, became the life of the party after learning this trick. He would perform it at every family gathering, bringing laughter and joy.

3. Spin Around

Teaching your Schnauzer to spin around is a great way to exercise their mind and body. This trick requires some coordination and can be quite entertaining to watch.

• Step 1: Hold a treat in front of your Schnauzer’s nose and move it in a circle.
• Step 2: As they follow the treat, say “spin.”
• Step 3: Reward them when they complete the circle.
• Step 4: Practice until they can spin on command without the treat.

Real-life example: Bella, a Giant Schnauzer, loved spinning so much that she would do it spontaneously during walks, much to the delight of passersby.

4. Fetch

Fetching is a traditional game that many dogs enjoy. Teaching your Schnauzer to fetch can be a rewarding experience for both you and your pet.

• Step 1: Throw a toy a short distance and encourage your Schnauzer to go get it.
• Step 2: When they bring the toy back, praise them and offer a treat.
• Step 3: Gradually increase the distance and complexity of the game.
• Step 4: Use a command like “fetch” to reinforce the action.

Real-life example: Daisy, a Miniature Schnauzer, became obsessed with fetching tennis balls and would play for hours, always eager for her next throw.

5. Sit Pretty

This trick involves your Schnauzer sitting up on their hind legs, resembling a ballerina. It’s a visually appealing trick that can be performed at dog shows or simply for fun.

• Step 1: Start with your Schnauzer in a sitting position.
• Step 2: Hold a treat between your fingers and slowly raise it towards their nose.
• Step 3: As they rise to reach the treat, say “sit pretty” and reward them.
• Step 4: Practice until they can sit pretty on command.

Real-life example: Oliver, a Standard Schnauzer, was a showstopper at his local dog park with his impressive “sit pretty” routine.

6. Roll Over

Rolling over is another trick that can be both fun and beneficial for your Schnauzer’s health, as it encourages them to stretch out their muscles.

• Step 1: Start with your Schnauzer in a lying-down position.
• Step 2: Hold a treat near their nose and move it towards their shoulder.
• Step 3: As they turn their head to follow the treat, they will roll over. Say “roll over” and reward them.
• Step 4: Practice until they can roll over on command.

Real-life example: Luna, a Giant Schnauzer, enjoyed rolling over so much that she would often initiate the trick, even when no treats were involved.

7. Speak

Teaching your Schnauzer to bark on command can be a fun way to communicate with your dog. However, it’s important to teach them to stop barking when told.

• Step 1: Encourage your Schnauzer to bark naturally.
• Step 2: As they bark, say “speak” and reward them.
• Step 3: When they stop barking, say “quiet” and give them a treat.
• Step 4: Practice until they respond to both commands consistently.

Real-life example: Rocky, a Miniature Schnauzer, learned to speak whenever his owner asked him to, but he also knew when to quiet down, making him a well-behaved housemate.

8. Play Hide and Seek

Playing hide and seek with your Schnauzer can be a stimulating game that helps them use their sense of smell and problem-solving skills.

• Step 1: Choose a hiding spot within your home or yard.
• Step 2: Call your Schnauzer and encourage them to find you.
• Step 3: Reward them when they locate you.
• Step 4: Switch roles and let your Schnauzer hide while you search.

Real-life example: Sophie, a Standard Schnauzer, loved playing hide and seek so much that she would often initiate the game herself, leading her owner on exciting hunts throughout the house.

9. Jump Through Hoops

Jumping through hoops is a trick that can be performed during agility training or simply for fun. It’s a great way to strengthen your Schnauzer’s muscles and improve their coordination.

• Step 1: Place a hoop on the ground and encourage your Schnauzer to walk through it.
• Step 2: Raise the hoop slightly off the ground and guide them under it.
• Step 3: Continue raising the hoop and encouraging your Schnauzer to jump through it.
• Step 4: Practice until they can jump through the hoop on command.

Real-life example: Finn, a Miniature Schnauzer, amazed everyone with his ability to jump through hoops, showcasing his agility and obedience.

10. Beg

Teaching your Schnauzer to beg is a simple trick that can be performed for entertainment or to practice basic obedience.

• Step 1: Hold a treat above your Schnauzer’s head.
• Step 2: As they try to reach the treat, they will naturally beg. Say “beg” and reward them.
• Step 3: Practice until they beg on command.
• Step 4: Incorporate the trick into everyday routines, such as mealtime.

Real-life example: Mia, a Giant Schnauzer, was a master at begging, often charming her owner into giving her extra treats.

The Importance of Positive Reinforcement and Patience

When teaching your Schnauzer new tricks, it’s crucial to use positive reinforcement and remain patient. Positive reinforcement involves rewarding your dog for good behavior, which can be done through verbal praise, treats, or play. This method encourages your Schnauzer to repeat the desired behavior, making training sessions enjoyable and effective.

Patience is equally important. Every dog learns at their own pace, and it may take time for your Schnauzer to fully grasp new commands. Avoid getting frustrated or angry, as this can lead to stress and hinder progress. Instead, focus on celebrating small victories and maintaining a positive attitude throughout the training process.

Remember, the goal of training is not only to teach your Schnauzer new tricks but also to strengthen the bond between you and your furry friend. With dedication, consistency, and plenty of love, you’ll be amazed at how much your Schnauzer can achieve.