Want those adorable photos of your dog holding a sign, toy, flower, or other prop? You can teach this trick at home with a little patience and plenty of yummy treats!
Start with something easy
Choose a lightweight, dog-safe object that is comfortable for your dog to pick up, but not something they are too excited about. A soft toy is usually a great starting point.
Reward the interaction
Hold the object near your dog's mouth and reward them for sniffing or touching it. Once they start putting their mouth on it, reward that behavior too.
Build toward a hold
Eventually, stop treating for a sniff or just touching it with their mouth and wait for your dog to keep the object in their mouth for a little longer before giving the treat. Start with just one second, then two, then three, and build duration from there.
Add a cue
Once your dog understands the behavior, AKA “human holds toy near my face and I hold it until they tell me to drop it”, introduce a word such as "hold" or "take it." Say the cue just before presenting the object and reward when they pick it up and hold it.
Practice with different props
Once your dog has the basics, try different objects of different sizes, textures, and shapes. Always make sure the prop is safe, lightweight, and large enough that it isn't a choking hazard.
Finally, add a stay and gradually work on getting your dog to hold the prop while you step back and take the picture.
With a little practice, your dog can become a pro at posing for the camera!
