How to train a parakeet
If you're wondering whether it's worth teaching your parakeet tricks, the answer is a big yes! Trick training is a fantastic way to keep your bird's mind sharp, prevent boredom, and create a closer bond between you and your feathered friend. It also keeps them physically active and mentally engaged—two things every parakeet needs to stay happy and healthy.
Parakeets (also known as budgies) are smart little birds, often underestimated. Believe it or not, they can learn hundreds—even thousands—of words, and they’re quick to pick up fun tricks too.
Why Trick Training Matters
Teaching your parakeet tricks isn’t just cute—it’s meaningful. It builds trust, encourages good behavior, and gives your bird something fun and stimulating to do. It’s also a chance for you to interact and deepen your connection with your pet.
💡 Did you know? In the U.S., we often use the word “parakeet” when referring to budgies (budgerigars), which are native to Australia. While all budgies are parakeets, not every parakeet is a budgie! Got a different type? Tell us in the comments!
Benefits of Teaching Tricks to Your Parakeet
Training goes beyond tricks—it supports your bird’s overall well-being. Here are just a few benefits:
Reduces Boredom: Mental stimulation helps keep your bird from getting bored or developing bad habits like feather plucking or excessive screaming.
Encourages Exercise: Many tricks involve movement, helping your parakeet stay physically active.
Boosts Confidence: Learning and mastering new skills builds your bird’s confidence and comfort in their environment.
Improves Communication: Training improves how your bird understands you—and how you understand them.
Strengthens Your Bond: Spending time together during training creates trust and affection.
How to Start Training Your Parakeet
Training takes time, consistency, and patience—but it’s so worth it. If you're ready to get started, here’s how to introduce your parakeet to the world of tricks.
Step 1: Start Simple with “Step Up”
Before diving into more advanced tricks, begin with a basic move: the "step up" command. It’s one of the most useful skills your parakeet can learn and sets the stage for more advanced training.
How to Teach “Step Up”
Hold your finger or a perch just under your parakeet’s belly.
Say “step up” (or any cue you want—just stick with it).
Gently nudge their belly so they naturally step onto your finger or perch.
Reward them right away with a small treat or praise.
Repeat several times a day until it becomes second nature.
Easy Tricks to Teach Your Parakeet
Once “step up” is mastered, the real fun begins. Try these beginner-friendly tricks to keep your bird entertained and mentally sharp:
Wave: Hold a treat just out of reach. When your bird lifts a foot, say “wave” and give the reward.
Spin: Lure them in a circle using a treat. Say “spin” as they follow it, then reward them when they complete the turn.
Target: Hold out a stick or your finger and say “target.” When your bird touches it with their beak, reward them.
Play Dead: Gently lay your bird on its back and say “play dead.” If they stay still, reward immediately.
Fetch (Retrieve): Place a small item in front of your bird and say “retrieve.” When they pick it up, reward them.
🧠Pro Tip: Use small, healthy treats like millet or bits of apple—just be sure the treat is bird-safe.
Advanced Parakeet Tricks to Try
Once your bird is confident with the basics, try leveling up! These tricks take more time but are just as fun.
Basketball: Use a mini hoop and small ball. Teach your parakeet to pick up the ball and drop it through the hoop.
Ring Toss: Show your parakeet how to place a ring on a peg using their beak.
Obstacle Course: Set up a mini course with ladders, swings, and tunnels. Teach your parakeet to navigate it step by step.
These tricks can be taught with the same method: use a cue word, reward progress, and repeat in short sessions.
Training Tips for Success
No matter which trick you’re working on, these tips will help you and your parakeet make progress faster:
Use Positive Reinforcement: Reward good behavior with treats, attention, or praise. Avoid scolding or punishment—it only slows things down.
Be Patient: Every bird learns at their own pace. If progress slows, take a break and try again later.
Keep Sessions Short: Parakeets have short attention spans. Aim for 10–15 minutes once or twice a day.
Use a Clicker (Optional): Clickers help mark the exact moment your bird does something right. It makes learning quicker and clearer.
Make it Fun: Use toys, treats, and a playful voice. Training should feel like a game!
Stick With It: Consistent practice is key. Even a few minutes daily can make a big difference.
Common Training Mistakes to Avoid
Even the best intentions can go off track. Here are a few things to avoid:
Training When Your Bird Is Tired or Hungry: Choose a calm, well-fed moment to start.
Pushing Too Hard Too Fast: Let your parakeet move at their own pace.
Ignoring Fear or Stress Signs: If your bird seems anxious, back off and give them space.
Being Inconsistent with Commands: Use the same words and gestures every time.
Final Thoughts
Training your parakeet can be a rewarding experience for both of you. It boosts their mental and physical health, deepens your bond, and creates plenty of fun moments along the way. Whether you're teaching a simple “step up” or a show-stopping spin, patience and positive vibes are key.
Keep training fun, stay consistent, and don’t forget to celebrate the little victories. You’ll be amazed at what your clever little bird can learn.
Monika Sangar is a dedicated bird rescue and author with a lifelong passion for pet bird care and bird health. As both a bird owner/rescuer and a molecular biologist, she shares her knowledge and experiences to help others become better bird owners. She is also an author who wrote, The Science of Avian Nutrition: https://a.co/d/f14lNl3
PDS is a registered 501(c)3 nonprofit organization (tax id #46-2470926)
Foods that are toxic to birds [Bird Health]
Foods That Are Toxic to Birds: What Every Bird Owner Should Know
Our feathered companions rely on us to keep them safe, especially when it comes to food. Many items we consider healthy or harmless can be dangerous—or even fatal—to birds. Whether you're a seasoned parrot parent or new to avian care, it’s crucial to understand foods that are toxic to birds so you can avoid accidental harm.
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1. Avocado
Avocados contain persin, a chemical toxic to birds. Even small amounts can lead to heart issues, weakness, and sudden death. Avoid offering avocado, guacamole, or dishes containing any trace of this fruit.
2. Chocolate
Chocolate contains theobromine and caffeine, both of which are highly toxic to birds. Ingesting chocolate can cause vomiting, seizures, tremors, and death.
3. Caffeine
Birds are much more sensitive to caffeine than humans. Coffee, tea, soda, and energy drinks can lead to increased heart rate, cardiac arrhythmia, and even sudden death.
4. Alcohol
Even a small sip of alcohol can depress a bird’s nervous system and lead to disorientation, organ failure, or death. Never offer alcohol or dishes cooked with it.
5. Onions
Onions can damage red blood cells and cause hemolytic anemia. Symptoms may include weakness, breathing difficulty, and pale mucous membranes. Onion powder in processed foods is especially dangerous because it's more concentrated.
6. Salt
Birds need only trace amounts of sodium. Too much can cause dehydration, kidney damage, or death. Avoid giving your bird processed foods, salty snacks, or table scraps seasoned with salt.
7. Fruit Pits
Pits from stone fruits like cherries and peaches contain cyanogenic compounds that release cyanide. These can be toxic in even small amounts. Always remove pits before serving fruit.
8. Xylitol
Found in sugar-free gums and snacks, xylitol is a sugar substitute that can cause liver failure and hypoglycemia in birds. Even trace amounts are dangerous.
9. Moldy Foods
Spoiled foods often harbor mycotoxins, which can cause severe organ damage or respiratory distress. Always serve fresh food and clean up leftovers promptly.
10. Raw Beans
Uncooked beans contain hemagglutinin, a natural toxin that can be lethal to birds. Only feed beans that have been fully cooked without salt or seasoning.
11. Honey
Though natural, raw honey can contain botulism spores, which are harmless to humans but potentially fatal for birds, especially chicks or birds with compromised immune systems. Never offer raw honey or honey-coated treats.
12. Nutmeg
Nutmeg contains myristicin, a compound that can cause hallucinations, increased heart rate, disorientation, and seizures in birds. Even small amounts of nutmeg in baked goods or spice blends can be dangerous.
13. Aloe Vera
Though often considered a natural remedy, aloe vera can cause issues when ingested by birds. It can cause digestive upset, diarrhea, and more serious internal issues.
14. Dairy Products
Birds are lactose intolerant. Their digestive systems lack the enzymes needed to process dairy. Milk, cheese, yogurt, and ice cream can lead to digestive upset, including bloating and diarrhea.
15. Processed Foods
Processed foods often contain salt, sugar, preservatives, artificial colors, and unhealthy fats—all of which are harmful to birds. Avoid feeding your bird chips, crackers, lunch meats, baked goods, instant noodles, or other packaged foods made for humans.
Parrot Require Fresh Diet.
Parrots and other pet birds have delicate systems and unique dietary needs. It’s essential to research and avoid foods that are toxic to birds, especially when introducing new items to their diet. Always prioritize fresh, bird-safe foods, and consult with an avian veterinarian if you’re unsure about something.
Keeping your bird’s diet clean, simple, and species-appropriate is one of the best ways to promote a long, healthy life.
Protecting Your Bird’s Health
Birds are highly sensitive creatures with very different nutritional needs from humans. Many items that seem harmless to us can have severe consequences for them. When in doubt, research before sharing or stick to bird-safe fruits, vegetables, grains, and seeds.
By avoiding these foods that are toxic to birds, you can help ensure your companion bird lives a longer, healthier, and happier life.
For a complete list of safe and unsafe foods, check out our book written by the dedicated bird lovers and rescuers at PDS Nonprofit. It's packed with expert advice, real-life rescue stories, and nutrition tips that put your bird’s well-being first.
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| Amazon link: https://a.co/d/62TiLQz |
Monika Sangar is a dedicated bird rescue and author with a lifelong passion for pet bird care and bird health. As both a bird owner/rescuer and a molecular biologist, she shares her knowledge and experiences to help others become better bird owners. She is also an author who wrote, The Science of Avian Nutrition: https://a.co/d/f14lNl3
PDS is a registered 501(c)3 nonprofit organization (tax id #46-2470926)