A New Trick #1

In previous blogs I have covered how to teach your dog basic obedience such as 'sit', 'down' and 'stay'. In my New Trick series I will teach you how to teach your dog a new trick! (Yes, even if you have an old dog!)

Please make sure that your dog DOES know their BASIC commands before starting a trick!

Today's trick will be: SHAKE, PAW or Give Me Five!

It really doesn't matter which one you call it (I like give me five...) it only matters that you are consistent. So pick one and stick to it!

To teach this trick, place your dog in the 'sit' position. Hold out a treat in front of your dog with a closed hand. Let your dog sniff, smell and lick your hand but do not give up the treat. Eventually your dog should try using a paw to open your hand, when they do, open your hand and say your chosen command word. Then repeat.

If, like me, you do not have a dog that likes to use their paws, simply pick up a paw (gently please!) with one hand, say the command word, give them their treat with the other, and place the paw back. Repeat.

Once your dog has mastered this, use it sparingly and not always in the same order. (Sit, shake down...sit shake down...etc...) Do not reward a paw you haven't asked for.

Good luck and happy training!