A classic tricks to train a dog is to "shake hands" and it is exponentially cuter when the paw being offered is a tiny Chihuahua paw. Your little canine can learn to Shake very easily and introducing him to your friends will have them all saying "awwww!"

What is Trick Training?

We've all seen dogs that can do seemingly amazing tricks such as praying or playing dead, but the basis for any trick comes naturally to dogs, even the diminutive Chi. Training tricks is based on behavior modification; that is, taking an action that is natural to a dog and modifying it into the desired trick. For example, dogs naturally raise their paws to walk, scratch or play with a toy. By teaching your pooch to lift his paw when asked, you are modifying that natural activity into a trick. It really is that simple, though with most Chihuahua's timid nature, behavior modification can take more time and patience than with larger breed dogs.

How to Teach Your Chihuahua to Shake His Paw

Before you can teach your little friend to shake, he will need to know how to Sit on command, so take the time to teach him that basic trick first. Another thing to keep in mind when training this trick is to always ask for the same paw. Don't expect your chihuahua to be ambidextrous just yet!

1. You'll want to start by sitting comfortably in front of your Chihuahua with a handful of his favorite treats nearby. This will help him feel less intimidated.

2. Ask him to sit and reward him with a treat and low-key praise. Too much praise at this stage may get him too excited to pay attention, so keep it mellow.

3. In a low-pitched voice, give the command "Shake," and lift his little paw.

4. While still gently holding his paw, repeat the command and give him the treat.

5. Tell him "good Shake!" and release his paw.

6. Give him lots of praise so that your Chihuahua begins to understand that lifting his paw pleases you.

7. Repeat steps 1-6 for short periods of time throughout the day. Remember that training sessions should be fun for you both!

8. Practice by lifting his paw for him until you think your pup understands what the command "shake" means.

9. Once your Chi has gotten the hang of you lifting his paw for him, try asking her to offer it by holding out your hand toward the same paw you have been picking up. At the same time ask him to "shake." As soon as he offers you his paw, give him a treat and lots of exited praise - what a smart dog he is!

Trouble Shooting

Many small dogs are uncomfortable with having their feet touched. Be sure to get him used to having his paws handled before beginning training of this trick. Don't force him, but gently pet his paws while talking nicely to him. This will not only help prepare him to shake, but also make nail trimming and visits to the veterinarian easier. Always keep things positive and your pup will soon associate having his feet touched and held as a good thing!

Don't be discouraged if your Chihuahua doesn't seem to understand the command "shake", be patient. All dogs learn at different speeds, just like people. If, after going through the first 8 steps several times, he still doesn't offer you his paw just keep practicing. If you offer your hand and he doesn't shake, gently repeat the command again. If he still doesn't give you his little paw, pick it up for him to remind him what "shake" means. If you start to get frustrated, stop the training session and take a break. Remember, training is about spending quality time with your beloved dog. He will figure it out eventually and be offering his tiny "hand" to shake before you know it!