Training · Tricks · intermediate

Bow (Play Bow)

The dog lowers chest and elbows while keeping the rear elevated, like a natural play invitation.

Age suitability: From about 4 months.

Aliases: play bow, take a bow

Prerequisites: Down

Details

Why dogs take to it: Play bows are real canine social signals that many dogs already offer during interaction.

Breed tendencies: Playful retrievers, spaniels, and herding breeds often learn by capture; lower-play-drive dogs usually need shaping.

Physical suitability: Generally safe but reduce reps for dogs with elbow or shoulder discomfort.

Supplies: treats, flat surface

Verbal cues: bow, take a bow

Hand signal: Sweep hand downward between front paws.

Fun fact or history: Play bows are documented across canids including wolves and coyotes.

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