Train your dog to say hello 2011-04-04

Dog Trick 1. "Hello"

Really impress your guests when your dog presents his paw to greet them

This is the first trick most dogs learn and it is very easy:

• Kneel down and ask your dog to sit in front of you.
• Gently lift his pause off the ground, shake it warmly, then treat and praise him.
• After doing this a couple of times, instead of lifting his paw, just touch his leg.
• If he does not get it, help him by lifting his paw a small amount. Praise him regardless of whether he needed assistance or not.
• Once he has the hang of it, start signal the command with the word "Hello".
• You can progress to using an outstretched arm, but build up gradually.
• You should then encourage your guest to greet your dog in this way, thereby further reinforcing the command and creating a positive experience out of meeting new people.