Wondering how to teach your dog to give a paw? You’re in the right place! You can build this command in just five steps and a short amount of time.
While basic commands should take precedence in dog training, other obedience exercises should not be neglected.
Dogs can continue to learn even in their later years and should be challenged. This is where small tricks like giving a paw come in handy.
Whether for greeting or just for fun, teaching your dog to give a paw is a simple command that can garner admiration from those around you.
Moreover, with this straightforward exercise, you provide variety in daily life and strengthen the bond with your furry friend. Shared training experiences bring you and your dog closer together.
Following is a detailed guide to each step, helping you reliably build this command.
What are you waiting for? On the paws, get set, go! Let the training begin.
Teaching the “High-Five” Dog Command in 5 Steps
- Step 1: Take a treat and close it in your fist. Hold the closed fist out to the dog so he can smell the treat. Now encourage your dog to try to get the treat.
- Step 2: As soon as the dog attempts to open your hand with his paw, reward him and let him eat the treat from your hand.
- Repeat this step several times.
- Step 3: Once the dog understands that he should place his paw on your hand to get the treat, add the command.
- Repeat this step several times.
- Step 4: Now try it without the treat by holding out an empty fist. When he places his paw on your hand, respond with the chosen command, such as “paw,” and reward the dog with a treat from your other hand.
- Step 5: In the final step, hold out your flat hand to your dog and respond with the command and a reward for the correct execution.
Again, it’s important to repeat the command several times.
Practice Makes Perfect!
For the command to be reliably recalled, practice regularly with your dog.
Tips for Dog Training – Teach “Paw” in No Time
Dog training should always be individually tailored because, like us humans, dogs are different. Some can concentrate for long periods from an early age, while others have many antics and need more breaks during training.
With these five tips, you can make training particularly relaxed for your furry friend:
- Tip 1: Start practicing new commands in a familiar environment so that your dog can concentrate and be distracted as little as possible by the surroundings.
- Tip 2: Use treats that your dog particularly enjoys to maintain his interest in learning.
- Tip 3: If you have the dog sit before practicing the command, he may find it easier to lift a paw. Sitting makes it less daunting to maintain balance.
- Tip 4: When the dog has done something right, reward him with attention and petting, not just treats.
- Tip 5: To ensure the command sits reliably, practice it regularly.
“Give Paw” is an impressive trick that isn’t that difficult to teach! With some patience and tasty treats, your dog will pick it up in no time.
