Bonnie learned to pick up a bucket last fall. It was Halloween time and kids were carrying around those black and orange buckets asking for goodies from friendly neighbors. I thought it would be cute if I taught her to grab the bucket by the handle and bring it to me, as if she were trick-or-treating. It was a fun trick and Bonnie learned it over the course of a couple weeks.

Once she learned that, she began to pick up other things and bring them to me. It didn't take long for her to bring me toys and towels. I'll post a video of her bringing me towels soon. For today I have a different video.

As you know, I have a broken left foot. I'm wearing a big black cast and I'm using a cane to help me walk around. The other day, I was sitting in a chair and my cane fell to the floor. Bonnie must have thought I was playing the pickup game again because she walked over to it, picked up the cane, and handed to me. I was astonished! What a smart dog.

Now Bonnie brings me the cane whenever I drop it or if it's where I can't get it. I never thought tricks could come in so handy. What a great thing for Bonnie to help me with my injury.

If you want your dog to pick up things, you can take a look at the video called 'Carry a Bucket' for ideas on teaching it.

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