How to Teach Your Dog to Roll Over with Louise and Ivy

Written by Crystal Moore | Last updated 11/06/24

Training your dog in different commands and tricks is more than just entertaining. Dog training is a fantastic way to keep your dog mentally stimulated and deepen the bond between you and your furry friend. Teaching your dog to roll over is a fun trick for them to learn and gives them another impressive skill to show off.

Before you start your training, arm yourself with a stash of irresistible rewards that you know your dog adores. If you've not found a treat to keep your dog's attention, don't worry! Here's our customer's picks for the best training treats:

Our Customer Top Training Treat Picks:

Fish has a strong aroma that is able to snatch and sustain your dog's attention. The above training treats are a selection of soft, crunchy, low in fat and high-value treats. Whichever treat you select to teach your dog to roll over can make the training sessions a tail-wagging success!

Training video with Louise and Ivy

Step-by-step guide on how to teach your dog to roll over

Step one:

Start by getting your dog into a down position. If your dog isn't familiar with the "down" command, teaching them this basic command beforehand can greatly facilitate the process of teaching your dog the roll over trick.

Step two:

Once your dog is in the down position, begin by using a treat to lure them. Hold the treat near their nose and gently guide their head towards their back legs, then move slightly upwards. This motion encourages your dog to roll onto their side and then over.

Step three:

Repeat step 2 until you're confident your dog is starting to understand the motion. Each time your dog performs the correct movement, mark it with a clicker or 'yes' (or your chosen marking word), followed by a reward. Keep in mind that every dog learns at their own pace. Some may grasp the trick quickly, whilst others might need a few more training sessions.

Step four:

Introduce your command word 'roll over' and gradually start to phase out using your hand to guide your dog. Begin by bringing your hand away from their nose and making a circle action with your hand.

Step five:

Keep practising until you're confident that your dog understands the command and feels relaxed performing it. Just like Ivy, you can even teach your dog to roll over in both directions!

Step six:

Begin phasing out the hand motion and rely solely on the verbal command 'roll over.' Remember to mark the behaviour and reward your dog each time they successfully perform the trick.

How long will it take for my dog to learn roll over?

Teaching your dog to roll over can vary in duration depending on several factors, including your dog's age, breed, temperament, and previous training experience. On average, it might take a few days to a few weeks for your dog to learn how to roll over.

Remember, every dog learns at their own pace, so don't get discouraged if your furry friend takes a little more time to master the roll over trick. Consistency and positive reinforcement will eventually lead to success.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why doesn't my dog like to roll over?

If your dog doesn't enjoy rolling over, it might be because they feel uncomfortable or vulnerable in this position. Some dogs have physical discomfort or health issues that make the trick challenging. Additionally, they might lack motivation if the rewards aren't enticing enough. Ensure you're using high-value treats and keep training sessions positive and fun.

What are the benefits to teaching my dog to roll over?

Teaching your dog to roll over provides mental stimulation and strengthens the bond between you. It also improves obedience and responsiveness to commands. Plus, it's a fun trick that can impress friends and family, making training sessions enjoyable for both you and your dog.