[Weily4Life]

Something that works for us when drying the dogs paws is to use the word "Gotcha"
But, then they were older when we got them. But here is what we did. Touch a paw, say "Gotcha" if the dog accepts, immediately give a treat accompanied by verbal praise. Grab the collar for putting on the lead, say "Gotcha" if dog accepts, immediately give a treat & verbal praise. We have used that in a variety of situations and no longer have to treat.

That said, with your puppy maybe it would work better to have a towel ready when you or the wife comes in from outside. Then, sit down with the towel in your lap and lay the puppy over the towel, then gently handle each paw and pat dry.