Training your dog with basic commands is essential for their safety, your peace of mind, and creating a well-behaved companion. These commands form the foundation for a dog’s training and ensure that your pet understands what is expected of them. Below are some of the most important commands every dog should know, along with tips on how to teach them effectively.
- Sit
The “Sit” command is often the first command taught to dogs and for a good reason. It’s simple, yet incredibly useful in situations where you need your dog to remain calm or stay put.
How to Teach:
- Hold a treat close to your dog’s nose.
- Slowly move your hand up, allowing their head to follow the treat, causing their bottom to lower.
- Once they’re in a sitting position, say “Sit” and give them the treat.
- Repeat this process until your dog associates the word with the action.
This command is great for stopping jumping behaviors and can be a precursor to more complex commands.
- Stay
Once your dog has mastered “Sit,” the “Stay” command is a natural next step. It teaches your dog patience and helps keep them safe in various situations, such as crossing a busy street.
How to Teach:
- First, ask your dog to sit.
- Open your palm in front of them and say “Stay.”
- Take a few steps back, then return and reward them if they remain in place.
- Gradually increase the distance and duration of the stay.
- Practice in different environments to build your dog’s ability to stay under various distractions.
Consistency is key when teaching “Stay,” and it’s important to start with short periods and slowly increase the challenge.
- Come
The “Come” command is crucial for your dog’s safety, especially if they’re off-leash or you need them to return to you quickly. It’s a command that every dog owner should prioritize.
How to Teach:
- Put a leash on your dog and gently pull them toward you while saying “Come” in a cheerful tone.
- When they reach you, reward them with treats and praise.
- Practice indoors before trying in an enclosed outdoor space, and gradually reduce reliance on the leash as your dog becomes more reliable.
A well-trained “Come” can prevent your dog from running into danger, like approaching traffic or other animals.
- Down
The “Down” command can help manage your dog’s behavior when you want them to settle or stay calm. This command can be more challenging to teach since it requires a submissive posture.
How to Teach:
- Hold a treat in your closed hand and place it near your dog’s nose.
- Slowly lower your hand to the ground, guiding them into a lying-down position.
- Once they’re down, say “Down” and give them the treat.
- Practice regularly, gradually increasing the time they remain in the down position before receiving their reward.
Teaching “Down” helps manage excitable dogs, especially in situations where you want them to be calm, like during a visit to the vet.
- Leave It
The “Leave It” command is important for preventing your dog from picking up something they shouldn’t, like harmful food or dangerous objects. It can also be useful for curbing unwanted behaviors like chasing or excessive curiosity.
How to Teach:
- Hold a treat in both hands. Show your dog one hand with the treat and say “Leave it.
- When they ignore that treat and focus on your other hand, reward them with a treat from the second hand.
- Practice by placing treats on the floor and using the “Leave It” command, rewarding them only when they refrain from going for the treat.
This command requires patience but is essential for keeping your dog safe and well-behaved.
- Heel
“Heel” teaches your dog to walk beside you rather than pulling on the leash, making walks more enjoyable for both of you. It’s a command that can take time to master but is well worth the effort.
How to Teach:
- Start with your dog on a leash at your side.
- Use a treat to guide them into position beside you.
- As you walk, say “Heel” and reward them for staying close.
- If they pull ahead or lag behind, stop walking until they return to your side.
Practicing this command regularly can help prevent leash-pulling and ensure your dog remains under control during walks.
In conclusion, teaching your dog these basic commands is not only about building obedience but also about strengthening the bond between you and your furry friend. With patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement, you can create a strong foundation for a well-mannered dog. These commands are more than just tricks—they’re essential tools for communication that can help your dog navigate the world safely and confidently. Start training early, keep sessions short and fun, and soon you’ll have a dog that’s a joy to be around both at home and in public.
Courtesy of Phoenix Dog Training and Dog Strength Training. Click here for Phoenix Dog Trainers. Follow us on Facebook & Twitter.