If you’ve ever heard a Boston Terrier “talk,” you know that it is one of the cutest things in the world. You may have been surprised to learn that it’s actually something you can teach your pup!
Teaching your Boston to “speak” is a fun way for you both to bond and pass the time.
Here’s a step-by-step guide with detailed instructions on how to do it.
Teaching Your Boston Terrier To Speak
Why should you teach your Boston Terrier to speak?
There are a few reasons why you might want to teach your Boston to speak. First, it’s a really fun activity that you and your pup can do together. Second, it can help improve your pup’s verbal communication skills. And third, it just makes your Boston Terrier even more adorable than she already is!
How long will it take to teach my Boston terrier to speak?
It is going to take, on average, 12+ tries before your Boston is going to pick up on this new command.
These findings come from a poll conducted on the Boston Terrier Society’s Twitter community. With over 44+ Boston Parents responding, the majority state it takes their Boston 12+ attempts before they learn a new command.
See the poll here…I may have spelled try funny, but the information is all the same 🙂
Are there other commands I should teach my Boston terrier before teaching them how to speak?
Yes, there are definitely other commands you should teach your Boston Terrier before teaching them how to speak. Some of the most important commands to teach your pup include “sit,” “stay,” and “come.” Once your Boston has mastered these basic commands, you can then move on to teaching them how to speak.
Read this list of essential obedience training your Boston should know before you start teaching them tricks: The 10 Most Important Commands To Teach Your Boston Terrier!
What should I not do when teaching my Boston Terrier to speak?
Do not get angry or frustrated with your Boston if they do not pick up on the command right away. Remember, it will take time and patience for them to learn how to speak. Be consistent with your training and keep at it, and your pup will eventually learn how to talk!
Step By Step – How To Teach Your Boston Terrier To Speak
Step 1: Pick an easy command word.
The best command words are short, simple and distinct; “speak” or “bark” are good examples. Whatever word you pick, make sure it isn’t one you use often in everyday conversation (otherwise, your Boston might get confused).
Step 2: Get your Boston’s attention.
Before you start training them, make sure they’re paying attention to you; if they’re distracted by something else, wait until they become focused on you again. Make sure they are alert and ready before moving on to the next step.
Step 3: Introduce the command word.
Once your Boston has their attention focused on you, say the command word (“speak” or “bark,” for example) in an upbeat tone of voice. Do this several times until your pup becomes familiar with the sound of the word and starts looking for a response from you when they hear it.
Step 4: Give treats as rewards.
Now that your Boston knows what the command means, offer treats every time they bark or vocalize in response to hearing the command word. This will help reinforce their understanding of what’s expected when they hear it and helps them link barking with getting a reward—which is always motivating!
Step 5: Practice often!
Make sure to practice regularly so that your Boston remains comfortable with speaking when prompted by their command word—this is important so that they don’t forget what’s expected of them when asked for “speech.”
Keep practicing until barking has become second nature for them; then, try adding more complicated commands like “sing,” which focuses on longer vocalizations instead of just barking.
Need more exciting tricks to teach your Boston Terrier?
Here is a list of tricks you can teach your Boston Terrier that they will love!
If you want even more fun tricks to teach your Boston, check out this article on Boston Terrier Society: 15 Epic Tricks To Teach Your Boston Terrier!
Final Thoughts
Training your Boston Terrier to speak may seem like an impossible task at first—but with patience and consistency, teaching your pup this skill can be enjoyable and rewarding (for both of you!). With this step-by-step guide, teaching your Boston terrier how to speak will be a breeze!
If you want to learn more commands and tricks you can teach your Boston Terrier, be sure to visit our article, 49 Commands And Tricks You Can Teach Your Boston!