How to Teach a Dog to Weave Through Your Legs
Weaving is a freestyle favorite. It looks complex, but it is just a sequence of simple lure moves that your dog links together.
Before you start
Stand with your feet apart, wide enough for your dog to walk through easily. Have treats in both hands. Your dog should be comfortable standing and moving around you. If your dog is nervous about legs or movement, spend time making it positive first.
Step 1: Lure through once
Stand with your feet apart, and hold a treat in your right hand, at nose height. Lure your dog between your legs from the front to the back, and mark and reward when your nose reaches the back.
Step 2: Lure around the leg
Switch the treat to the other hand. Lure your dog around your left leg, and back to the front. Mark and reward. This completes half the figure eight.
Step 3: Add a second pass
Now lure back through, and around the other leg. Reward after each pass. Keep the lure close, and keep the pace calm.
Step 4: Link the figure eight
Gradually ask for two passes, then three, before rewarding. Your dog should move smoothly from one side to the other.
Step 5: Add the cue
Say "weave" before you lure. Use a hand signal such as pointing to each side. Reduce the lure over time, so your dog follows the hand without a treat.
Step 6: Narrow your stance
When your dog is confident, bring your feet closer. Walk slowly, so your dog weaves while you move. This is the classic freestyle move.
Common mistakes
- Luring too high. Dogs jump or twist. Keep the treat at nose height.
- Moving too fast. Calm pacing helps dogs stay accurate.
- Standing too narrow too soon. Dogs may bump or hesitate.
- Rewarding only at the end. Reward every pass at first.
Troubleshooting
- Your dog circles back. Use a hand signal to guide the direction.
- Your dog stops in the middle. Reward smaller steps.
- Your dog is scared of legs. Start with an arch, such as a low tunnel of your arm.
- Your dog loses interest. Shorten the session and use better treats.
Large and small dogs
Large dogs need a bigger stance and a slower pace. Small dogs may find it easier but can be stepped on, so move gently. Keep surfaces non-slip, and avoid repetitive twisting.
Next steps
Combine weaving with spin, back up and bow to create a routine. See canine freestyle and dog dancing.
A sample plan
- Day 1: Lure through once.
- Day 2: Lure around each leg.
- Day 3: Link two or three passes.
- Week 2: Add the cue and narrow the stance.
Moving while weaving
Once your dog weaves smoothly with you standing still, take a small step forward as your dog passes between your legs. Start with one step, then two, and reward each pass. Keep your pace slow and steady, because your dog needs to learn to time the steps with yours.
If your dog gets tangled or bumps your legs, make the steps smaller and keep your feet wide. Lure with the hand on the side the dog is going to, and reward at the point the dog clears your leg. Over time you can walk several steps with your dog weaving, which looks impressive and builds coordination.
End each session with a simple, easy success so your dog finishes happy.
Choosing rewards and pace
Use small, soft treats so your dog can eat quickly and keep moving. Hold one in each hand and alternate, so your dog follows the hand on the side they are heading toward. Keep your voice calm and your movements smooth, because quick or jerky motions can make dogs hesitate or jump.
The takeaway
Lure through your legs, link the passes and build slowly. Weaving is a fun, flexible trick for every size of dog.
Frequently asked questions
Can big dogs do it?
Yes, but they need more space. Widen your stance or use a different weaving game.
How long does it take?
A week or two of short sessions for many dogs.
What if my dog is nervous?
Go slowly, reward bravery and avoid cornering the dog.
Is it good exercise?
It adds mental and physical variety, but keep it gentle.