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An older man in a green sweater sits on a patterned rug holding the raised paw of a cream Chihuahua wearing a red collar. 8 / 25

Grandpa Held Out His Hand for the Hundredth Time. This Time Peanut Was Ready.

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It is a big moment on the living room rug. Henry, sitting low in his green sweater, holds out his hand, and Peanut has placed one tiny cream paw right on top of it. She sits up very straight in her red collar, head tilted, big dark eyes locked on his face as if waiting for the verdict. Henry studies the paw with a careful, focused look over his glasses. Around them the room is pleasantly cluttered, with a stack of books, a tea mug and papers on the coffee table, a blue sofa with a mustard throw, and a pair of slippers by the couch.

Chihuahuas are smart and can learn tricks well, though they are known for having minds of their own. Short, upbeat sessions work better than long ones. Use very small treats, since a Chihuahua's daily calorie needs are tiny and extras add up fast. For shake, wait for your dog to lift a paw while sitting, mark it with a word like "yes," and reward right away. Be gentle when holding a small dog's paw, never pulling or lifting their leg high. Positive, patient training builds trust, and a trick like this is a nice daily activity for an older owner who wants something easy and fun to share with a pet.

Henry may look like a strict judge, but this one is an easy call. Peanut nailed it, and a well-earned treat is surely on the way.

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