Menu

Language
Download NowApp Store
Download NowGoogle Play

Shake (give paw) is one of the easiest and cutest tricks to teach. It's fun and strengthens positive interaction with your dog. For dogs that know "sit", a few sessions are enough. Paviento is a Turkish at-home dog training app developed in Türkiye. Teach Your Dog to Shake (Give Paw).

Tricks

How to Teach Your Dog to "Shake"

A fun, easy first trick that builds your bond

Get it onApp StoreGet it onGoogle Play
Teaching a dog to shake - Paviento
Shake (give paw) is one of the easiest and cutest tricks to teach. It's fun and strengthens positive interaction with your dog. For dogs that know "sit", a few sessions are enough.

Before You Start

  • Easier if the dog knows "sit" — have it sit
  • Prepare small, quickly-delivered treats
  • Choose a calm, distraction-free setting
  • Keep sessions short and fun

Step-by-Step Shake

Luring method

  1. Have the dog sit, close a treat in your fist
  2. When the dog paws at your hand to get it, say "good" + reward
  3. After a few reps, add the "paw" cue the moment it lifts its paw
  4. Over time offer your empty hand and reward when it places the paw

Reinforcement

Say the cue clearly, reward the instant the paw lands. Gradually fade the treat and shift to praise.

Common Mistakes

  • Forcing the paw up (breaks trust)
  • Adding the cue too early, before the motion is solid
  • Long, boring sessions
  • Late rewards — timing is critical

Step-by-Step Guide

  1. 1

    Have the dog sit

    The "sit" position makes shaking easier.

  2. 2

    Hide a treat in your fist

    Make a fist; let the dog paw at it.

  3. 3

    Mark + reward the touch

    "Good" + treat.

  4. 4

    Add the "paw" cue

    Say it the moment the paw lifts.

  5. 5

    Work with an empty hand

    Teach it to place the paw without a treat.

  6. 6

    Repeat in different settings

    Generalize so it sticks.

  7. 7

    Fade the reward gradually

    Praise + occasional treats.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many days to teach shake?

Most dogs do the motion in 1-3 short sessions; making the cue reliable takes a few days.

At what age can it be taught?

Any age once the dog knows basic "sit"; keep sessions short for puppies.

My dog won't lift its paw, what do I do?

Hold the treat in your fist and lower your hand slightly; the dog will use its paw to get it. Don't force the paw up.

Can I teach both paws?

Yes. Use a different cue (e.g. "paw" / "other paw") to teach each paw separately.

Is this trick useful or just fun?

Both: paw handling makes cooperation easier for nail trims and paw cleaning.

Get the App

Paviento is an at-home dog training app that puts a personalized training plan, daily tracking, health reminders, the Paviento Assistant and a tick scanner in one place. Free on iOS and Android.

Get it onApp StoreGet it onGoogle Play

Related Guides

Help

Frequently Asked Questions

Blog

Dog Training Articles