Training your dog to put their front paws up on an object is a foundational exercise that improves body awareness and can be used in parkour, physical therapy, confidence-building exercises, and cooperative care. It is a useful skill for introducing dogs to stairs or ramps, getting into cars, or stepping onto weight scales.

Often referred to as ‘feet up’ or ‘paws up,’ this behavior can be taught using lure, capture, and shaping methods. Luring involves holding a high-value treat near your dog’s nose to guide them into position. The treat is moved in small measures toward the target object to encourage your dog to place their paws on it. Capturing is used to reinforce behaviors your dog offers naturally. Observe for little steps or movement toward the object, then for touching the object with a paw, then for placing a paw on the object. Targeting may be used to encourage your dog to step up to touch your hand or a target stick. This method can also be helpful for adding duration.

Items needed:

• Platform (or a thick mat, a small flat sturdy box, or a flat inverted bucket)
• A marker (clicker or verbal marker such as yes)
• High-value treats

Phase 1: Preparation and setup

• Using a low, stable object as a platform, place it on a non-skid surface so your dog has good traction. A yoga mat or non-slip drawer liners may be helpful.
• Keep training sessions short, under five minutes, with several repetitions to avoid overwhelming or frustrating your dog.

Phase 2: Using luring

• Hold a high-value treat near your dog’s nose to guide them to the platform.
• Move the lure in small measures to encourage your dog to place their paws on it.
• Continue to lure until your dog places both front paws on the object. Mark and treat immediately when both paws are in position.

Stop using a treat lure once your dog is reliably putting their paws on the object. Instead of holding the treat in front of their nose, use your hand as the target. 

Phase 3: Using capturing and shaping

• Mark and reward for any small movements toward the platform; this could include your pet looking at, walking near, pawing or placing a paw on the platform.
• Tossing a small treat away can help to reset your pet and give them another chance to approach and interact with the platform.
• Shape your pet’s offered behavior as they engage with and explore the platform. Mark and reward for each interaction.

Phase 4: Using targeting

• Hold your hand or target stick in front of the platform and cue your pet to touch.
• Move your hand over the platform in small, comfortable movements for your pet, and cue a touch.
• The last position you use would be where you want your pet to stand or have their feet up for building duration (length of time).

Phase 5: Adding the cue

• Start by saying the verbal cue (such as step up or paws up) right before your pet performs the action.

Phase 6: Duration

• Once your pet is reliably positioned on the platform, work on duration by continuing to reward them as long as they stay in place.
• Your pet always has the choice to move away and should be rewarded for doing so. Monitor their body language carefully for their consent. Use a smaller platform, a flatter surface, or move to a quieter area and give your pet another opportunity.

Phase 7: Generalization

• Once your pet understands the concept of step up, practice with different objects and surfaces to help them generalize the behavior.
• Use taller platforms such as higher steps, small tables, furniture, or surfaces such as walls, trees, boulders, or lamp posts. Do not ask them to go higher than they feel comfortable or to continue if they refuse.