Pfötchen geben
The English phrase 'shake a paw' can be translated into German as Pfötchen geben.
This phrase is used specifically as a command during dog training to teach a dog to offer its paw to a human.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of Pfötchen, which is the diminutive of Pfote (paw) and geben, meaning 'to give'.
How does it change in a sentence?
When using this as a direct command to a dog, you use the imperative form Gib Pfötchen! instead of the infinitive Pfötchen geben.
Did you know?
- In German dog culture, the command Gib Pfötchen! is often part of a sequence of 'tricks' known as Kunststücke, which literally translates to 'art pieces'.
- If you were to use the larger word Pfote instead of Pfötchen, the command might sound strangely formal or even slightly aggressive, as if you were addressing a large predator rather than a pet.
- If a dog is very large, some owners still use Pfötchen because the diminutive form functions as a term of endearment regardless of the animal's actual size.
Examples in context
- Ja, auf jeden Fall! Gib mir Pfote!Yes, definitely! Give me a paw!
- Natürlich! Geben Sie mir Pfote.Of course! Give me the paw.
- Kannst du Pfötchen geben?Can you shake a paw?
- Der Hund soll Pfötchen geben.The dog is supposed to shake a paw.
Example conversation
Julia is training her dog in the park while Maximilian watches.
- JuliaGib mir Pfötchen, Bello!Shake a paw, Bello!
- MaximilianEr ist sehr brav.He is very well-behaved.
- JuliaJa, er kann gut Pfötchen geben.Yes, he can shake a paw well.
- MaximilianDas ist ein tolles Training.That is a great training session.
