Good manners can leave a lasting impression, and Bella seems to know that better than most. The 6-year-old shelter dog appears to believe every introduction should begin with a handshake. In a video shared by a volunteer, Bella repeatedly extends her paw to anyone who stops by, hoping they will take a moment to say hello.
Shelter dog doesn’t stop raising her paw because all she wants is someone to shake it
The clip was posted by Instagram user @vivspowers, a shelter volunteer and dog mom who regularly spotlights animals in need of homes. At the start of the video, Bella can be seen standing attentively while continuously lifting one paw toward the people near her. The behavior initially left the volunteer puzzled.
“I wasn’t sure what she was doing and then I realized…” the text on the video reads as Bella continues repeating the gesture. It does not take long for her actions to make sense. As the Pittie keeps extending her paw, another message appears on screen explaining what was happening: “She kept trying to hand us her paw to shake.”
The realization transformed what seemed like a random action into a touching display of Bella’s personality. She appeared to be politely asking for a handshake from anyone willing to stop by.
Alongside the video, Vivian encouraged followers to spend time with Bella and help increase her chances of finding a permanent home. In the caption, she wrote, “6 Year Old Bella would love to be your coffee date this weekend. Take Bella out on a daycation and help her find her family!”
The post quickly attracted supportive comments from viewers who were charmed by Bella’s gentle nature. “What a sweetie!! I hope someone chooses her asap,” one person wrote. Another commented, “What a polite little lady!” Some viewers offered their own interpretations of the behavior. “She probably wants her puts rubbed- my pitty does it all the time,” one commenter suggested. Many were ready to take Bella up on her invitation. “Sweet baby!!! I need a coffee date for sure!” another user said.
