Training sheet: Teaching “Bang!”

🎒 Preparation ▼

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Treats

Very tasty ones

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Comfortable surface

Rug, grass or bed

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Starting position: Your dog must be in a “Down”, facing you or side-on.

🎯 The lure phase (step by step) ▼

The lead-in

Bring a treat up to your dog's nose while they are already lying down.

The tip-over

Slowly move your hand towards their shoulder, then towards their flank, passing over their back.

The movement

To keep following the smell of the treat, your dog will have to shift their weight and let themselves slide onto their side.

The reward

As soon as their flank touches the ground and their head is resting, say “Bang!” and give the treat immediately.

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Key to success: The word “Bang!” must come exactly when the flank touches the ground and your dog is still.

🗣️ Introducing the verbal cue ▼

Once your dog tips smoothly onto their side to follow your hand:

The “pistol” hand signal

Use your hand as a “pistol” (index finger pointing) and say “Bang!” (or “Pow!”, “Play dead”).

Guiding with the signal

Make the tipping movement with your pistol hand to guide the motion.

Praising

Say “Bang!” and reward as soon as your dog is fully stretched out and still.

🎓 Fading the lure ▼

The aim is for your dog to respond to the visual or verbal signal alone, from a distance:

From a distance

Make the “pistol” signal from 1 metre away while giving the verbal cue.

Subtle help

If your dog hesitates, help them with a slight movement of your head or shoulder.

Reward from your pocket

Reward with a treat that comes from your pocket once your dog is properly down on the ground.

Building duration

Gradually increase the time your dog has to stay “dead” before you give the reward.

💡 Final tips ▼

The direction of the tip-over: Dogs often have a favourite side to lie on. Spot it at the start and always work on that same flank so as not to confuse your dog.
Stillness: Only give the reward if your dog is completely still. If they wag their tail or try to get up too quickly, wait for them to settle.
Safety: Avoid slippery or hard floors (tiles), as your dog could bang their hips or elbows by flopping over too fast.
Release: As with “Stay”, use a release word (e.g. “OK!”) to let your dog know they can “come back to life” and get up.

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Tip: The “pistol” gesture is very visual and fun. It is a very popular trick for demonstrations, and children love it!