10 Dog Training Commands You’ll Wish You Taught Your Pup Sooner
Every dog owner has that moment: your pup bolts for the neighbor’s yard, ignores your call, or just can’t sit still at dinner time. Sound familiar?
These 10 training commands could’ve saved you—and your shoes—a lot of trouble. It’s not too late to teach them now!
1. Sit
The “Sit” command is one of the first and easiest commands to teach your dog. It sets the foundation for good behavior and helps manage your dog in various situations.
How to Teach:
- Hold a treat close to your dog’s nose.
- Slowly move your hand upward, allowing their head to follow the treat while their bottom naturally lowers to the ground.
- Once their bottom touches the ground, say “Sit” and give the treat along with verbal praise.
- Practice multiple times daily until the command becomes second nature.
Benefits:
- Encourages patience.
- Prevents jumping and unruly behavior.
- Useful in public settings and when meeting new people.
2. Stay
“Stay” teaches your dog to remain in one spot until you signal otherwise, which is crucial for their safety.
How to Teach:
- Start with your dog in the “Sit” position.
- Hold your hand out in front of you like a stop sign and say “Stay.”
- Take a step back. If your dog stays, reward them with a treat and praise.
- Gradually increase the distance and duration over time.
Benefits:
- Prevents your dog from running into dangerous areas.
- Makes activities like grooming or feeding easier.
- Builds discipline and focus.
3. Come
The “Come” command ensures your dog returns to you promptly, making it essential for off-leash activities or emergency situations.
How to Teach:
- Attach a long leash to your dog.
- Crouch down, open your arms, and excitedly say “Come.”
- Reward your dog with a treat and affection when they reach you.
- Practice in a secure, distraction-free area before advancing to environments with more distractions.
Benefits:
- Enhances off-leash control.
- Critical for avoiding dangerous situations.
- Strengthens the bond between you and your dog.
4. Down
The “Down” command helps manage your dog’s energy and can calm them in stimulating environments.
How to Teach:
- Start with your dog in a “Sit” position.
- Hold a treat in your hand and move it down toward the floor.
- Encourage your dog to follow the treat until they are lying down.
- Say “Down” once they are fully on the ground, then reward them.
Benefits:
- Useful for calming excited dogs.
- Prevents jumping on furniture or people.
- Facilitates restful behavior in crowded spaces.
5. Leave It
Teaching “Leave It” helps prevent your dog from grabbing harmful or unwanted items.
How to Teach:
- Hold a treat in each hand, showing one to your dog and saying “Leave It.”
- Wait until your dog stops trying to get the treat and looks at you.
- Reward them with the treat from your other hand and praise.
- Gradually increase the challenge by using higher-value items or placing items on the floor.
Benefits:
- Keeps your dog safe from ingesting harmful objects.
- Reduces the risk of resource guarding.
- Improves impulse control.
6. Drop It
The “Drop It” command is essential for when your dog picks up something they shouldn’t have.
How to Teach:
- Offer a toy or chewable item your dog enjoys.
- Say “Drop It” while presenting a treat.
- Wait until they release the item, then reward and praise them.
- Practice with different objects to reinforce the behavior.
Benefits:
- Prevents destructive chewing.
- Helps in emergencies when your dog grabs dangerous items.
- Enhances their ability to share toys.
7. Heel
The “Heel” command trains your dog to walk calmly at your side without pulling.
How to Teach:
- Use a short leash and keep treats in your hand.
- Begin walking and say “Heel” while keeping the dog close to your left side.
- Reward your dog every few steps when they stay in position.
- Gradually increase the duration and reduce treats over time.
Benefits:
- Improves leash manners.
- Reduces stress during walks.
- Ensures safety in busy areas.
8. Wait
The “Wait” command is similar to “Stay” but emphasizes pausing before taking an action.
How to Teach:
- Use “Wait” before opening doors or feeding.
- Hold your hand out and say “Wait” while your dog remains still.
- Release them with a phrase like “Okay” or “Go” and reward them for waiting.
Benefits:
- Prevents your dog from bolting out of doors.
- Builds patience and impulse control.
- Useful during car rides or feeding time.
9. Off
The “Off” command is used to deter your dog from jumping on people, furniture, or counters.
How to Teach:
- Say “Off” when your dog jumps on something inappropriate.
- Use a treat to guide them back to the floor.
- Reward them once they are back on the ground.
- Consistently enforce the command whenever needed.
Benefits:
- Reduces unwanted jumping behavior.
- Protects furniture and household items.
- Promotes respectful interactions with guests.
10. No
The “No” command sets boundaries by teaching your dog to stop undesirable behaviors.
How to Teach:
- Say “No” in a firm but calm tone when your dog misbehaves.
- Redirect them to a positive behavior, such as “Sit” or “Come.”
- Avoid yelling or punishment, which can confuse or frighten your dog.
Benefits:
- Helps establish boundaries.
- Discourages negative behaviors.
- Builds trust and understanding between you and your dog.
By teaching these 10 basic commands, you can ensure a well-mannered and happier dog. Consistent practice, patience, and positive reinforcement are the keys to success.