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How This Clever Doberman Trains Grandma for Perfect Dog Scratches
Guest Contributor
When it comes to getting attention, some dogs have truly mastered the art of communication. A recent Instagram video featuring a Doberman named Arlo has captured the hearts of thousands by demonstrating just how clever and persistent our four-legged companions can be. In the light-hearted clip, Arlo appears to "train" his grandma in the fine art of giving proper dog scratches. With over 15,000 likes and counting, the video has struck a chord with viewers who appreciate both the humor and the affectionate bond between pets and their humans. For anyone interested in dog behavior or simply looking for a smile, this Doberman trains grandma video is a delightful watch.

The video opens with Arlo sitting alongside his grandma on a couch, while the dog's owner records the interaction. The scene is calm, but it quickly becomes clear that Arlo has a mission. According to the humorous captions overlaying the video, this mission involves a five-step process titled “How to Train Your Grandma.” Each step is paired with Arlo’s expressive gestures, making it easy to follow along with his charming antics.
Step one begins with a dramatic stare. Arlo locks eyes with his grandma in what the video jokingly describes as an attempt to “stare into her soul.” When this intense gaze fails to produce the desired result—more scratches—he escalates his efforts. The second step, labeled “Slap the air like you just don’t care,” involves Arlo lifting and pumping his left front paw in a deliberate motion. This action finally earns him some affectionate scratching, much to his satisfaction.
But Arlo isn’t done. When the scratching slows, he moves on to step three: making it “personal” with a well-timed side eye. This subtle but pointed look, combined with another paw gesture, communicates his expectations clearly. The video caption at this point reads, “That’s the ticket!” suggesting Arlo feels he’s making progress in his training efforts.
Things take a turn when grandma momentarily shifts her attention to her device. Arlo, not one to be ignored, initiates step four—dubbed the “Slap and Judge.” This step involves a combination of paw movement and a facial expression that seems to convey both disappointment and determination. The comedic framing of this moment adds to the video’s charm, highlighting the emotional intelligence dogs often display.
Finally, Arlo reaches the fifth and final step: waving his paws and then ignoring grandma altogether. This apparent reversal of roles is met with renewed attention from grandma, who resumes scratching him. The video concludes with a caption declaring that the training has been successfully completed. The entire sequence is not only funny but also a testament to the strong, often unspoken communication between pets and their families.
Viewers have responded enthusiastically to Arlo’s performance. Comments on the post range from admiration for his intelligence to appreciation for the loving relationship he shares with his grandma. One user wrote, “She loves her grandfurbboy and Arlo knows it lol,” capturing the affectionate dynamic on display. Another added, “He is so gorgeous. Love how they connect with their hooman,” highlighting the deep emotional bond that many pet owners recognize in their own lives.
What makes the video particularly engaging is its relatability. Many dog owners have experienced similar moments when their pets use body language, eye contact, or even gentle nudges to communicate their needs. Arlo’s exaggerated but familiar tactics make the video both entertaining and endearing. It’s a reminder of how intuitive dogs can be, and how much they value interaction with the humans they love.
I found this detail striking: the way Arlo adapts his behavior based on his grandma’s reactions. It’s a subtle but powerful example of how dogs observe and respond to human cues. Whether it’s a strategic paw movement or a perfectly timed glance, Arlo seems to know exactly what will get the response he wants. This level of social awareness is something many pet owners recognize, and it adds to the video’s charm.
As social media continues to showcase the personalities of pets around the world, videos like this one remind us of the joy and connection animals bring into our lives. Arlo’s playful “training session” is more than just a funny clip—it’s a moment that captures the essence of companionship, communication, and mutual affection. For those who enjoy heartwarming dog videos or are curious about how dogs express themselves, this Doberman and grandma video is well worth a watch.