How to Teach Your Dog to Jump Through a Hula-Hoop

Hello dog owners and dog lovers! If you want to teach your dog tricks, you've come to the right place. In this column, I will guide you through training your dog to jump through hula hoops, walk on balance beams, shake their paw, play dead, and more! This quarter, I have chosen to jump through hula-hoops as the trick.

Step 1: Familiarize your dog with the hula-hoop

This is the most essential step for this trick. Start letting your dog sniff the hula hoop. Give your dog the occasional treat if they express interest in the hoop. You need your dog to be comfortable with the hoop before you can start jumping.

Step 2: Get your dog to walk through the hoop

Hold the hula hoop on the ground. With your free hand, hold a treat to motivate your dog. If your dog doesn't get the memo, gently push them through the hoop. If your dog walked around the hoop, I suggest putting the hoop in a doorway and trying again.

Step 3: Keep raising the hoop higher and higher

When your dog has mastered walking through the hoop, start raising the hoop bit by bit, until your dog can jump through it. If your dog goes under the hoop, I recommend lowering the hoop to their height, but above the ground. Remember: although it may be cool to see if your dog can jump as high as you, dogs are animals, and can get hurt. Keep the hoop at a safe level for the greatest fun!

Features:

In my column, I have been mentioning treats or toys to use to motivate your dog to do a trick. Here are some of my faves:

Greenies

Greenies are dog bones that can clean dog teeth. These are not a substitute for brushing your dog’s teeth, but are a fun way to help. Dogs love the bone’s flavor as well!

Bocce’s

Bocce’s dog treats are shaped like little B’s, which I like to break in half or quarters to have my dog do more tricks. Bocce’s dog treats come in many different flavors, and my dog loves them all!

Twisty Toys

When my dog wants to play, he almost always brings me one of these toys. Twisty Toys are incredibly stretchy, and I guarantee you will be playing tug-of-war with your dog until the toy breaks, which may be awhile, since these toys are incredibly durable. If you want one, email [email removed].