Ever wonder how top pickleball players generate insane spin on their forehand drives? It’s not just about power—it’s about technique. One of the most effective (and surprisingly simple) ways to achieve massive topspin and control is using the “Pat the Dog” forehand technique.
This method, used by elite players like Hunter Johnson, creates a whipping motion that leads to high paddle head speed, increased spin, and pinpoint accuracy.
Here’s the amazing Hunter Johnson in action:
What is the ‘Pat the Dog’ Forehand?
The “Pat the Dog” technique is a unique swing path used by top players to generate extreme topspin on forehand drives. The key idea? Imagine patting the heads of several dogs in front of you with your paddle face while using an Eastern grip.
How It Works:
- Eastern Grip – Hold your paddle like you’re shaking hands with it. This grip allows for better topspin generation and easier wrist mobility.
- “Pat the Dogs” – As you swing, your paddle face should briefly face downward as if you’re tapping multiple dog heads in front of you.
- Whipping Motion – Instead of a straight swing, your paddle moves in a circular path, generating incredible paddle head speed.
- Last-Second Acceleration – Just before contact, “pull the trigger” by whipping through the ball with fast wrist action for spin and control.
Watch as our friend and coach, Will East, breaks down the Pat the Dog technique:
Result? Increased topspin, better ball control, and more powerful drives that dip aggressively into the court.
Why the ‘Pat the Dog’ Technique Works
1. Maximizes Paddle Head Speed
The circular swing path creates a natural whipping motion, increasing the speed of your paddle at the moment of contact. More speed = more spin and more power.
2. Generates Massive Topspin
With the paddle face slightly closed (angled downward) during the swing, the “Pat the Dog” motion forces you to brush up on the ball, creating heavy topspin. This spin keeps your shots deep yet controlled, making it harder for opponents to counterattack.
3. Improves Consistency and Accuracy
By following a natural circular path, the stroke feels smoother and more repeatable. You don’t have to force topspin—it happens naturally, making your forehand more reliable under pressure.
4. Helps Control High and Low Balls
- High balls → The technique allows you to flatten out your shot for extra power.
- Low balls → The brushing motion lifts the ball with topspin, keeping it inside the baseline.
How to Practice the ‘Pat the Dog’ Forehand
1. Shadow Swings (No Ball)
- Stand in ready position with an Eastern grip.
- Swing slowly, patting imaginary dogs in front of you.
- Focus on making a smooth circular motion with your paddle.
✅ Goal: Build muscle memory for the correct swing path.
2. Wall Drill
- Stand 8-10 feet from a wall and hit controlled forehand drives using the “Pat the Dog” motion.
- Focus on brushing up on the ball instead of hitting flat.
- Try to aim for the same spot repeatedly to improve consistency.
✅ Goal: Develop spin control and paddle speed.
3. Partner Feeding Drill
- Have a partner feed balls to your forehand.
- Use the circular motion to pat the dog and whip through the ball.
- Experiment with different levels of topspin by adjusting how much you brush the ball.
✅ Goal: Learn to apply topspin in real-game situations.
4. Live Play Challenge
- During games, challenge yourself to use the technique on every forehand drive.
- Pay attention to how your opponent reacts—do they struggle with the spin?
- Adjust your swing path to find the most effective amount of whip for your game.
✅ Goal: Get comfortable using the Pat the Dog technique in real matches.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
Mistake #1: Holding the Paddle Too Stiffly
If your wrist is too tight, you lose the whip effect.
Fix it: Keep a relaxed grip and let the paddle move naturally.
Mistake #2: Swinging Too Flat
If your swing is too linear, you won’t generate enough spin.
Fix it: Focus on a circular swing path, brushing up on the ball.
Mistake #3: Contacting the Ball Too Late
If you hit too late, your shot loses power and control.
Fix it: Make contact slightly in front of your body.
Mistake #4: Not Following Through
Stopping your swing too early reduces spin and power.
Fix it: Finish your swing high and across your body.
Why You Need This in Your Game
The Pat the Dog technique is more than just a way to add spin—it’s about unlocking a smoother, more effortless forehand that works in every situation. Once you get the feel for it, you’ll notice your shots become more natural, more consistent, and way tougher for opponents to handle.
Like any skill, it takes practice, but stick with it, and soon you’ll be whipping forehands with confidence, dictating points, and making your opponents scramble. Now, go out there, pat some imaginary dogs, and start hitting forehands like a pro!
