Tricks · Hard

How to teach your dog to bow

A play bow on cue is a charming trick and a nice stretch.

By Pawfessor Editorial TeamUpdated

An owner teaching a dog bow
  • LevelHard
  • Practice timeAbout 30 min in total, over short sessions
  • Reps per session3–5
  • You needTreats

A bow mirrors the play bow dogs use with each other. It’s a nice warm up stretch, too.

Before you start

  • A quiet room with no distractions
  • Small, soft treats they love (or their own food)

Step by step

Teaching bow, step by step
  1. From a stand, lure a treat down between the front paws

Frequently asked questions

My dog keeps lying down instead of bowing. Help?

Practice right after they stand up, mark faster and gently place an arm under the belly at first.

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