Tuesday, October 21, 2008

Teach your dog to shake paws

Ever see those dog shows on tv and wonder how people teach their dogs such cool tricks? The answer is patience. This is a vital key in teaching your dog any trick. Of course, some dogs are easier to train than others. For the most part, however, you must realize that teaching your dog is going to take some time. Even the most stubborn dog is capable of being trained. Don't lose patience if it takes your dog longer than others to get it right. However, with enough practice, your dog can learn even the most complicated tricks. Positive reinforcement is very effective when trying to teach your pet a new trick. Grab some treats that your dog enjoys to give your pet the right motivation to learn. The key to teaching your dog any tricks is repetition.

Let's start your pet off with the paw shake trick. This trick is fun and fairly simply to learn. It's best to have your dog sitting down when trying to teach this trick. Say "shake" to your dog a few times. Hold out your hand while saying "shake." Of course, he isn't going to give you his paw unless he already knows the trick. After a few times, grab your pet's paw and shake it. Praise him and give him a treat. Tell him "good boy" (or girl) in a very excited voice so that he will know he has done well. Repeat this several times a day for about 5-10 minutes a day. Do not overexert your dog or he will become bored with the trick very quickly. After a few sessions, your dog will begin to pick up his paw on his own. You may not even have to say "shake" in order for your dog to give you his paw. If you put out your hand, he may learn by just the motion of your hand.

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