Who has never dreamed of showing everyone that their dog knows incredible tricks? And thus prove that, of course, it is the smartest dog... So what if we started by learning to give a leg? We give you the Jagger & Lewis secrets for a quick and caring learning experience!
Before starting training, make sure your dog is in a quiet environment that is free of distractions. It's also important to have appropriate rewards, like dog treats. Finally, be patient and keep in mind that learning takes time.
Here are the steps to teach your dog to give paws
- Start by asking your dog to sit up. This position is more comfortable for him and makes it easier to learn the desired behavior.
- Hold a treat in your hand and shake it into a fist. Show your dog your clenched fist by placing it near his front paw.
- Wait until your dog touches your closed hand with his paw. He may try to sniff or lick your hand, but don't open it until he touches your hand with his paw.
- As soon as your dog touches your hand with his paw, praise him immediately and offer him the treat. It reinforces the desired behavior.
- Add a verbal cue: Once your dog understands the expected behavior, add a verbal cue, such as “Give me your paw,” just before presenting your closed hand. Reward him every time he gives a paw in response to the signal.
- Practice regularly: Repeat these steps several times a day, in short sessions of 5 to 10 minutes. Regular practice will help your dog assimilate the behavior and respond reliably to the verbal cue.
Tips for successful learning
Always use the same verbal and gestural signals to avoid confusing your dog. Do not pull or lift your dog's paw, as this may make your dog uncomfortable and interfere with learning. Each dog learns at a different pace. Be patient and adapt to the needs and temperament of your companion!
