Trick of the Week: Back Up

Biscuit’s Guide to Moonwalking Your Way into Fame

Alright, fellow furballs and their resident humans — welcome back to Biscuit’s Totally Professional, Definitely Certified, 100% Serious Training Academy (membership fee: one cheese stick per lesson).

This week’s trick? Oh, it’s a showstopper. It’s dramatic. It’s guaranteed to impress your neighbors, your vet, and that squirrel you’ve been trying to intimidate for months. Yes, friends, we’re talking about…

“Back It Up!” — the art of the canine moonwalk.
(And no, you do not need glitter socks. But they help.)

Why This Trick is Pure Gold

Some tricks say, “I’m a smart dog.”
Some say, “I’m a well-trained dog.”
But the moonwalk? It says, “I’m a smart, well-trained dog… who also has a side gig as Michael Jackson’s backup dancer.”

It’s surprisingly tricky because walking backward is not something we dogs do every day — unless you’re trying to avoid the bathtub, dodge the nail clippers, or slowly back away from a suspicious piece of broccolli on the kitchen floor. (Don’t judge me. Broccolli is shifty.)

Step 1: Location, Location, Location

Humans, this part’s for you:
Start in a hallway. Why? Because if there’s only one way to go — backward — then we can’t wander off sideways to investigate a weird smell, check for crumbs, or lick the wall. (Not saying I do that. Just… some dogs might.)

Hallways are basically a reverse runway. Work it, baby.

Step 2: The Hand Signal

Decide on a clear cue. You can say “Back it up!” or “Moonwalk!” or “Avoid the Vacuum!” — I respond to all three.

Pair it with a hand signal like moving your hand toward us in a “shoo shoo” motion. Just… don’t wave like you’re trying to land a plane. We’re backing up, not preparing for liftoff.

Step 3: The Motivation

Oh yes, you’ll need the good treats for this. Not the “healthy training kibble” that tastes like beige. I’m talking roast chicken, cheddar cubes, or a tiny piece of that sandwich you swear you were going to eat later.

Hold the treat low, right in front of my nose, and then gently step toward me. Natural instinct says, “Whoa, personal space!” and I’ll start stepping back.

Step 4: The Praise Explosion

The instant I take one step back, party time. Big smiles, big “Good dog!!” energy, and hand over that treat like it’s the last cookie on earth.

Repeat, and I’ll start figuring out that walking backward = snacks + applause. And honestly? That’s my love language.

Step 5: Build the Distance

Once I’m confidently taking a few steps, add more distance before handing over the treat. The goal is to have me moonwalking half the hallway, then taking a bow at the end. (Optional bow — but highly recommended for maximum drama.)

Biscuit’s Bonus Blooper Reel Tips

• Don’t rush it. If you try to get me to back up ten steps on day one, I’ll just sit down and stare at you like you’ve lost your mind.

• Film the early attempts. My first try at moonwalking looked like I was trying to avoid stepping in something sticky while also sneezing. Iconic.

• Watch your toes. We can’t see behind us, and paw-to-foot collisions are common. Sorry in advance.

Why This Trick Makes You the Coolest Human on the Block

Dogs who can “sit” are cute. Dogs who can “shake” are charming. Dogs who can “moonwalk”? Legends.

You’ll get laughs, gasps, and possibly a small crowd of fans. Plus, it’s a surprisingly great workout for your dog’s brain and coordination. And when you post it online? Instant viral content. Just tag me so I can bask in your glory.

Homework

This week, practice “Back It Up!” every day for 3–5 minutes. Hallway. Good treats. Big celebration. And remember: this is not just about walking backward. This is about entering rooms backward just to be extra.

Next time, we’ll move on to another jaw-dropping trick. But until then…

Keep your tails high, your treats plentiful, and your moonwalk smooth.
Now back it up, baby.

— Biscuit 🐾

Question from A.L. : This question is for Kevin. I heard that some birds lay their eggs in other birds’ nests. Why do they do this?

Kevin: Birds sometimes bring their eggs to other nests because, just like me, they get dropped off at daycare. But these birds sometimes forget where their kid is so he ends up with new parents. Birds aren’t too bright.

Every episode, Biscuit, Cricket or Kevin (you choose) will comment on one short message or question from a reader. Feel free to send in a photo if you’d like. We might be able to use it! So think of a good one and send all questions and comments to [email protected]

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Words of Wisdom from Biscuit

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A Final Note

Until next time,

The Dad, the Mom and all the Pups!