The Art of Begging: How to Teach Your Dog to Be a Better Con Artist


The Dogfather: Making an Offer You Can’t Refuse

Remember that one time your furry companion looked at you with those big puppy dog eyes and you just couldn’t resist sharing a little bit of your filet mignon? Or the time they gently placed their chin on your thigh at the table, and that last slice of pizza seemed to just vanish into thin air (and their stomach)? Oh, and who could forget the nudge-nudge, wink-wink they pulled when they convinced you (and maybe a passerby or two) into doling out a second dinner?

Let’s face it, our dogs already have the knack for conning us out of our food and into extra belly scratches. But maybe you want to be able to put these natural talents of theirs to even better use – for entertainment, or perhaps for some extra loot in Viva Paws Vegas. Let’s explore the fun, silly world of the art of begging and how you can “train” your pet to become a four-legged scam artist extraordinaire!

Oliver Twist and the Paw-er of Persuasion

Fake it till you make it! The key to their success is charisma – you may have even unknowingly fallen to their charm. Teaching your pup a few simple tricks can give them an extra edge when it comes to melting the hearts (and wallets) of everyone they meet.

Begin with the classic shake. But, our clever canines can really up their game just by giving a little flair to their paw work. Have them extend their paw a little slower, with big sweeping motions, so they can show off those sweet moves on the dance floor. Emphasize the sad eyes, look, no hands (or paws), and watch as your friends are compelled to shower your dog in attention and treats.

Industrious Industrious Canines: A Dog’s Tale

Ever seen a dog working the crowd? Some well-placed accessories and props can help sell their hard-luck story. A leg cast (made from a lovely toilet paper roll right before it goes into the recycling) or an eye patch (crafted out of an old sock) can tug at the heartstrings of even the most cynical. Their limping walk can rival the finest dramatic masterpiece. “Oh no, poor baby injured themselves! Where, oh where shall I send these Get-Well-Soon gifts and treats?”

Memoirs of a Grrrr-rifter

Once they’ve mastered the basics, it’s time to move on to some more advanced scams. Have you ever tried to watch a movie in peace only to have your dog plop their head down on the edge of the couch, batting their eyes and giving you that pleading look? Strategically placing themselves in front of the television can improve their odds, and your movie-viewing experience now comes with an adorable intermission of face licking.

They can also slowly but surely inch their way into your bed at night. Suddenly, you find yourself clinging to the edge, wondering how your 20-pound pupper managed to commandeer your queen-sized mattress.

Hairy Houdini: Teaching New Tricks, Expecting Treats

In the end, remember that practice and creativity make perfect. Training them in the fine art of doggy deception is mostly about using their existing repertoire of tricks and skills to achieve new levels of cunning and cuteness. Engaging in such light-hearted tomfoolery can lead to not just amusement for you and your friends, but a stronger bond between you and your furry companion.

Just don’t be surprised when one day they’ve convinced you to share that entire pint of ice cream – and you didn’t even see it coming.

Michael

I'm a human being. Usually hungry. I don't have lice.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recent Posts