Training your dog is more than just teaching them to perform tricks; it’s about building a strong, trusting relationship and ensuring their safety and happiness. A well-trained dog is a confident dog, and a dog who understands you is a joy to be around. Mastering basic dog obedience is the foundation for a lifetime of fun and companionship.
Whether you have a new puppy or an older rescue, starting with a few key dog training commands is the most effective way to communicate and set clear expectations. This guide will walk you through the ten most essential commands that every dog should know, providing simple, positive reinforcement-based methods for teaching sit stay come and more.
1. Sit
Why it’s essential: The “Sit” command is the gateway to all other dog training commands. It’s a simple way to gain your dog’s attention and a polite way to greet people. It also helps with impulse control, preventing them from jumping up on guests or running out the door.
How to teach it:
- Hold a treat close to your dog’s nose.
- Slowly move the treat up and back over their head. Their nose will follow the treat, causing their rear end to lower naturally.
- As their rear touches the ground, say the word “Sit!” in a clear, happy voice.
- Immediately give them the treat and praise them enthusiastically (“Good Sit!”).
- Repeat this a few times a day in short, fun sessions.
2. Stay
Why it’s essential: “Stay” is a crucial safety command. It teaches your dog to remain in one spot even with distractions, which is vital in situations like crossing a busy street or when you need them to wait patiently. It’s a true test of their basic dog obedience.
How to teach it:
- Start after your dog has mastered “Sit.”
- Tell your dog to “Sit,” then give the hand signal for “Stay” (a flat palm facing them) and say “Stay!” in a calm voice.
- Take one step back. If they remain, immediately step back to them and reward with a treat and praise.
- Gradually increase the number of steps you take back, and eventually, the duration of the “Stay.” Always reward them for a successful attempt.
3. Come
Why it’s essential: This is arguably the most important command for your dog’s safety. A reliable “Come” command can prevent them from running into danger, whether on a busy street or in a crowded park.
How to teach it:
- Start in a low-distraction environment.
- Use a high-pitched, enthusiastic tone and say your dog’s name followed by “Come!”
- As they start to move toward you, praise them heavily (“Good boy! Good girl!”).
- When they reach you, give them an extra special treat and lots of happy praise.
- Never use this command for something they don’t like (e.g., bath time). You want them to associate “Come” with pure joy.
4. Down
Why it’s essential: The “Down” command is excellent for a dog to learn how to settle and relax. It’s a more submissive and calming position than sitting and can be useful in many situations, like when you’re at a cafe or have visitors over.
How to teach it:
- Ask your dog to “Sit.”
- Hold a treat to their nose and slowly move it down towards the floor, between their paws.
- As their body lowers, say the word “Down!”
- Once they are fully in the down position, immediately give them the treat and praise.
5. Leave It
Why it’s essential: This is another critical safety command. “Leave It” can save your dog from eating something dangerous, whether it’s a chocolate bar dropped on the floor or a poisonous mushroom on a walk.
How to teach it:
- Hold a treat in your hand and close your fist.
- When your dog tries to sniff or lick your hand, say “Leave It!”
- Ignore their attempts until they stop and look up at you.
- As soon as they do, praise them and give them a treat from your other hand.
- Gradually progress to placing a treat on the floor, then covering it with your hand and repeating the process.
6. Drop It
Why it’s essential: “Drop It” is essential for teaching your dog to release items from their mouth. This helps prevent them from chewing on your belongings and, more importantly, from ingesting something they shouldn’t.
How to teach it:
- Start with a low-value toy your dog has in their mouth.
- Offer them a high-value treat and say “Drop It!”
- Most dogs will immediately release the toy to get the better treat.
- As soon as they do, give them the treat and praise them.
- With time, they will learn to associate the command with receiving a reward for letting go.
7. Off
Why it’s essential: The “Off” command teaches your dog to stop jumping on people or furniture. This is particularly important for larger breeds who could accidentally knock someone over.
How to teach it:
- When your dog jumps on you, turn away and ignore them.
- Wait until all four paws are on the floor.
- As they lower themselves, say “Off!” and reward them with a treat.
- You can also try using a leash to gently guide them down. Never reward them for jumping.
8. Heel / Walk
Why it’s essential: A dog that pulls on the leash can make walks stressful and even dangerous. The “Heel” or “Walk” command teaches them to walk politely by your side without pulling, making outdoor time enjoyable for both of you.
How to teach it:
- Start with a loose leash.
- When your dog pulls ahead, immediately stop walking.
- Only begin walking again when your dog comes back to your side and the leash is loose.
- Reward them with a treat every few steps as they walk politely next to you.
9. Settle / Place
Why it’s essential: This command teaches your dog to go to a designated spot (like their bed or a mat) and stay there calmly. It’s great for managing a dog’s excitement when guests arrive or during mealtimes.
How to teach it:
- Toss a treat onto your dog’s bed or mat.
- When they go to get it, say “Place!”
- Once they’ve eaten the treat and are standing or lying on the mat, give them another treat.
- Practice this repeatedly, eventually adding “Stay” and increasing the duration they have to remain on their place.
10. Look At Me
Why it’s essential: The “Look At Me” command teaches your dog to focus on you, even amidst distractions. This is a foundational skill that can be used to redirect their attention from unwanted behaviors.
How to teach it:
- In a quiet area, hold a treat up to your eye level.
- Say “Look At Me” or your dog’s name.
- When they make eye contact, immediately praise them and give them the treat.
- Gradually increase the duration of eye contact before rewarding them, and then introduce mild distractions.
Tips for Success
- Be Patient: Training takes time and consistency. Don’t get discouraged if your dog doesn’t get it right away. This is especially true for a puppy training guide; puppies have short attention spans.
- Keep It Positive: Always use positive reinforcement. Treats, praise, and toys are far more effective than punishment.
- Keep Sessions Short: 5-10 minute sessions are perfect. End on a high note with a successful command.
- Be Consistent: Everyone in the family should use the same commands and hand signals.
Mastering these dog training commands is a journey that will not only improve your dog’s behavior but will also deepen the bond you share. Start your basic dog obedience journey today, and watch your furry friend flourish!