DoggMatch
← All lessons

Tricks & games

Give a paw

A little party trick that quietly builds handling and trust.

5 minBeginner

You'll need: Small treats, Your dog in a sit.

Give a paw — a dog and their person practising together

How to do it

  1. Step 01

    Treat in a loose fist

    With your dog sitting, hold a treat in a loose fist near their chest and wait.

    Illustration: Treat in a loose fist
  2. Step 02

    Wait for the paw

    Most dogs paw at your hand eventually. The moment they do, say "yes" and open your hand.

    Illustration: Wait for the paw
  3. Step 03

    Name it

    Once the paw comes reliably, start saying "paw" as they lift it. Then try with an empty hand.

    Illustration: Name it

How did it go?

Tell us about your dog and we'll keep track of what you've worked on, and suggest what to try next.