Don’t hold its paw: This is the foolproof method to teach your dog how to do a paw high five
There are many fun ways to bond with your pet dog - teaching it to give you its paw is one of the simplest. Here’s what you need to know.

It’s a simple command that will not only boost your dog’s concentration, it is also a fun way to bond with your pet while spending quality time together.
Teaching your dog to give you its paw or “high-five” you, is one of the easiest tricks for them to grasp although you will need the right setting - and some treats at hand to reward them.
Dog offers affectionate paw and high-fives to toddler friend pic.twitter.com/OATgKFlM7F
— TODAY (@TODAYshow) January 11, 2018
First of all, make sure you are together with your dog somewhere free of distractions where you won’t be interrupted. It’s also important that both of you are happy and relaxed - a tired, hungry or worn dog won’t be in the mood for playing games or learning new tricks.
Next, have a treat - something which you know your dog loves - a dog biscuit or chew. Hold it in the palm of your hand and clench your fist - even though your won’t be able to see it, it knows you are holding a treat because it will be able to smell it.
This is Bobby. He has shaking with his right paw down, but is still working on his left paw. Needs to stick his tongue out to help focus. 12/10 pic.twitter.com/KKnLzr0XlP
— WeRateDogs (@dog_rates) October 5, 2022
Make sure you reward your dog
Place your fist on the ground, your dog will intuitively tap your hand with its paw. Reward it with the treat. Repeat the trick several times, rewarding your pooch each time their paw you and slowly introduce the word “paw”.
Over time, they will get used to hearing the word and associate it with a treat.
If they’re struggling a little, take a break and come back to it later. But never pull at your dog’s leg or paw, instead, let them naturally figure it out for themselves.
Over time, you can progress to another level - by revealing the treat in your open hand and let your dog show you it has mastered the high-five game. It’s fun for both of you and a great way to bond with them. Dogs enjoy enrichment through games and training, and is also good for their emotional health and well being.
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