Knowing whether your dog is left- or right-handed may seem like a mere curiosity, but knowing this helps you better understand their behavior and how they relate to their environment. Just like people, dogs also have a dominant paw, and according to the Royal Canine Society of Spain (RSCE), this preference is directly linked to their personality, their learning ability, and the way they manage emotions.
On social media, this topic has sparked great interest thanks to videos in which trainers and specialty stores demonstrate simple methods for determining each animal’s dominant paw. Beyond the anecdote, the truth is that three out of four dogs have a clear preference, a phenomenon known as canine motor lateralization, which the RSCE has analyzed in various research studies and educational campaigns.
This laterality responds to a specific neurological basis. Each hemisphere of the brain controls the opposite side of the body and is specialized in different functions. The left hemisphere—which governs the right paw—is associated with calm, routines, and logical ability, while the right hemisphere—related to the left paw—is more closely linked to intuition, sensitivity, and reaction to new stimuli or stressful situations.
SENSITIVE LEFT-HANDERS, RESOLUTIVE RIGHT-HANDERS
According to the Royal Canine Society, left-handed dogs, whose right hemisphere is dominant, tend to be more emotional and sensitive to changes in their environment. They tend to show a more intense response to loud noises, storms, or fireworks, but they also stand out for their empathy and emotional connection with their owners. In contrast, right-handed dogs are characterized by being more confident and decisive, especially in familiar environments, and by maintaining better concentration on repetitive tasks.
It is no coincidence that many of the dogs selected for assistance, therapy, or guide work are right-handed. Their emotional balance and self-control allow them to function effectively in contexts that require stability and prolonged concentration. On the other hand, left-handed dogs, with their more emotional profile, may excel at activities that require intuition or quick responses.
THE THREE TESTS TO FIND OUT
The RSCE suggests several simple methods to determine a dog’s dominant paw. One of the most reliable is to offer them an interactive toy, such as a Kong stuffed with food, and observe which paw they use to hold or steady it while trying to reach the contents. Another way is to pay attention to which front paw they move first when getting up from a lying position or when climbing a step. You can also leave a treat under a piece of furniture and note which one they reach for it with.
For a conclusive result, the organization recommends repeating each test at least 50 times and considering the paw used two out of three times dominant. The results usually remain stable over time, demonstrating that this is not just a momentary preference, but a permanent neurological trait.
BEYOND CURIOSITY
José Miguel Doval, president of the Royal Canine Society of Spain, emphasizes that “knowing whether your dog is right- or left-handed isn’t about labeling it, but rather about better understanding how it relates to the world.” In his opinion, identifying this characteristic allows for better adaptation of training routines, games, and activities for each animal, thus strengthening its well-being and its bond with its owner. “A left-handed dog may need more positive reinforcement, while a right-handed dog enjoys exercises like agility or obedience more,” he notes.
Understanding these nuances, the RSCE concludes, not only helps enhance their natural talents but also improves daily coexistence. Knowing which “leg” each dog is lame on—literally—is a way to get to know them better, respect their way of perceiving the environment, and strengthen the relationship between the two.
