Teaching Your Bird the "Step-Up" Command

Step 1: Choose a Non-Threatening Training Area

The "Step-Up" command is the most basic and important command for a pet bird to know. Not only will you use this command in daily interaction with your pet, it is imperative that pet birds are able to perform this task in the event of a vet visit. In order to ensure that you have your bird's undivided attention during training, it is important that you choose a suitable location in which to teach him. Follow these tips to choose a training area for your bird that will be conducive to the learning process.

Create a Positive Environment:

Birds are very sensitive creatures, and because they are so perceptive, their emotions often depend upon whether they see their environments in a positive or negative light. To ensure your bird's comfort, try to use a room that is well-lit and brightly colored, yet quiet and away from his cage and similar distractions.

Close Off the Training Area:

When training your bird, always make sure to close any doors and cover any windows that may be present. This will help you hold your bird's attention while at the same time protecting your bird in case he becomes bored with his lessons and attempts to fly off.

If you have just recently acquired your bird, the first few training sessions may be very frightening for him. Choosing a training location that will be comfortable for the bird will not only make it much easier for you to communicate with your pet, but will go a long way in easing the bird's concerns.

Step 2: Begin With Socialization

As with most living beings, birds learn best when they are having fun. Training your bird can be a snap if you put forth a little effort to encourage your feathered friend.

Start by Talking to Your Bird:

We all know that birds are very vocal, but they are also often soothed by the sound of their owner's voice. When beginning a training session with your pet, take a few minutes at the beginning to talk and play with your bird so that he understands that he is participating in a fun and desirable activity.

Offer a Treat to Break the Ice:

While treats are used primarily for rewarding the completion of commands or tasks, there is no harm in allowing your pet a tiny treat when you start your training sessions, just to set a positive tone.

Using techniques designed to ease your bird into training sessions often proves to be very useful with pets who are apprehensive or reluctant to cooperate. Always remember to keep things fun for the bird in order to maximize the impact of his lessons.

Step 3: Give Your Bird the "Step-Up" Command

Once you and your bird are settled into your training area and prepped for the lesson, it will be time to begin teaching the "Step-Up" command. Remember to keep a smiling face and positive tone throughout your pet's lesson! Follow these instructions to ensure that your training session runs smoothly.

Slowly extend your hand to the bird: Some birds can be frightened by sudden movements and may not be used to being handled. Make sure that at first you move very slowly and maintain a calm demeanor to avoid scaring your pet.

Gently press your index finger to the bird's lower abdomen: If you have a large bird, use your forearm. Most birds will automatically step-up when they sense pressure on their bellies.

Using a calm, pleasant voice, say "Step-Up": With regular training, your bird will soon recognize this command as his cue to step onto your hand. While all birds are individuals and learn at different rates, this simple yet important command is generally mastered by most birds within the first few training sessions. You may be amazed to find that your pet is quite the little scholar!

Step 4: Praise Your Bird for Completing the Command

Birds, like other pets, need to be rewarded when they successfully complete a task. This is what allows the bird to realize that he has done what you wanted him to do. You should always remember to lavish praise on your bird whenever he achieves even the smallest of victories.

Provide Plenty of Yummy Treats:

Birds can and often do think with their stomachs. Offer your bird a tasty fruit, veggie, or other treat to reward him for a job well done. Make sure to avoid any treats that could be toxic or poisonous to your pet.

Present Your Bird with a Favorite Toy:

Some bird owners prefer to reward their pets with playtime. If you choose to try this method, you should designate a special link text to be used only as a reward for good training sessions. This will allow the bird to recognize that time with the toy is a reward for desirable behavior.

Birds that receive lots of positive reinforcement during training most always end up being fast learners and eager students. Make sure that you always convey your support to your bird by not missing a chance to let him know that he's done a great job.

Step 5: Practice Every Day

Training is an ongoing process that never really comes to an end. Frequent repetition is key in making sure your bird does not forget the commands that he has learned. Once your pet masters a command, it is important to continue to practice it with him each day .

Set a Schedule for Daily Training:

Set aside a specific time each day to practice with your bird. Incorporating training into your bird's daily routine will encourage him to look forward to and anticipate training sessions, while helping him retain the information he has been taught.

Look for Ways to Practice During the Day:

Many everyday tasks of bird ownership provide golden opportunities to practice your pet's training. For example, at cage cleaning time, place your hand inside and give the "Step-Up" command rather than allowing your pet to walk out of the cage on his own. You will be surprised at how many occasions will allow you to creatively sneak in some extra practice time!

By following the steps outlined in this guide, you are sure to have your feathered friend on the road to training success in the blink of an eye. Don't forget to exercise patience with your bird, and set realistic goals for him to achieve. Keep in mind that your bird is a sensitive and emotional creature, and needs to be rewarded for his efforts to understand your lessons. As long as you remember to keep a positive attitude and practice often, training is an activity that will bring both you and your pet great satisfaction.