Training your Pomeranian to shake hands is not only a fun trick but also a great way to bond with your furry friend. This trick is relatively easy to teach and can be a delightful party trick to show off to friends and family. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you teach your Pomeranian how to shake hands.
What You Need:
- Treats: Choose small, tasty treats that your Pomeranian loves.
- Quiet space: A distraction-free area to conduct short, focused training sessions.
Step-by-Step Guide to Teaching Your Pomeranian to Shake Hands
Step 1: Get Their Attention
Start by ensuring you have your Pomeranian’s attention. Hold a treat in your hand and let them see it, so they know there’s something good coming their way.
Step 2: Sit Command
Have your Pomeranian sit down. Training your dog to sit before shaking hands makes the process easier, as it puts them in a stable position to lift one of their paws.
Step 3: Introduce the Command
Gently lift one of their paws with your hand while saying the command “shake.” It’s important to choose a specific word and use it consistently. You can also use “paw” or any other word as long as you stick with it.
Step 4: Reward
Once you lift their paw, shake it gently, and immediately give them a treat. The reward should come right after the action so that your Pomeranian associates the act of shaking hands with something positive.
Step 5: Repeat
Repeat this process several times in short bursts. Pomeranians have short attention spans, so keeping the training sessions short will help them stay focused.
Step 6: Practice Makes Perfect
Practice this trick a few times every day. With consistent practice, your Pomeranian will start lifting their paw on their own as soon as you say the command.
Step 7: Add Variations
Once your dog has mastered shaking hands, you can add variations to the trick, like “high five” or “wave,” to keep them engaged and learning.
Tips for Success
- Keep Training Sessions Short: Pomeranians respond best to training sessions that last 5-10 minutes.
- Stay Positive: Always use positive reinforcement. Pomeranians are sensitive and respond well to encouragement and treats.
- Be Patient: If your Pomeranian doesn’t get it right away, don’t worry. Patience is key in dog training.
- Consistency is Key: Practice regularly and keep your commands consistent.
Conclusion
Teaching your Pomeranian to shake hands is a straightforward and enjoyable process. It enhances your bond and provides mental stimulation for your pet. Remember, the key to successful training is consistency, patience, and positivity. Happy training!
For more tips on training your Pomeranian and taking care of them, visit American Kennel Club for resources and expert advice on pet training and health.