Man’s best friend has jumped through hoops for us throughout history — quite literally when it comes to obedience training. Whether you have a new puppy or are looking to brush up on commands with a seasoned dog, understanding the foundations of positive reinforcement and consistency is fundamental to effective training. In this detailed guide, we’ll bark up the right tree, walking you through the process of teaching your canine companion some of the most important commands they need to know.
Training your dog goes beyond a mere novelty; it strengthens the bond between you and your pet, keeps them safe, and can be a major contributor to a harmonious home life. From “Sit” and “Stay” to “Come” and “Leave It,” these are the building blocks of a well-behaved pup.
Preparing for Training Success
Before you jump into training, it’s important to set the stage for success. Here are some key steps to take before the training session begins:
Set Aside Dedicated Training Time
Consistency is crucial in dog training. Allocate specific times during the day when you and your dog can concentrate on learning. These sessions need not be long — in fact, short, frequent bursts of training are often more effective than marathon ones.
Minimize Distractions
You want your pup’s undivided attention, so choose a quiet area free from as many distractions as possible. A secluded room or a corner of your yard can work well.
Gather Your Toolkit
Treats, a clicker (if you choose to use one), and a positive attitude are the bare essentials you’ll need during your training. Make sure the treats are small enough to be eaten quickly and without a lot of chewing.
Learn Your Dog’s Favorite Motivator
Every dog is unique. While some might work harder for a tasty treat, others might prefer a toy or enthusiastic praise as a reward. Find out what makes your dog’s tail wag the quickest, and use that as their primary motivator.
Teaching the “Sit” Command
The “Sit” command might just be the most basic, yet it’s one of the most useful. It can be a precursor to other commands and a behavior your dog can exhibit in a variety of scenarios. Here’s a step-by-step guide to teaching “Sit”:
The Lure Method
- Begin with your dog standing in front of you.
- Hold a treat in your hand near your dog’s nose.
- Slowly move your hand up and back, leading your dog’s head and body. Their natural response will be to sit to keep their eyes on the treat.
- The moment your dog’s bottom touches the ground, say, “Sit,” and give them the treat and plenty of praise.
- Repeat this process, pairing the action with the command word, “Sit,” until your dog sits without the need for a treat lure.
Training Your Dog to “Stay”
The “Stay” command is essential for keeping your dog safe and well-mannered. It takes patience and practice, but it’s well worth the effort. Here’s how to get your dog to “Stay”:
Start Simple
- Ask your dog to “Sit” or “Lie Down.”
- Hold your hand out flat, with your palm facing forward, like a stop sign.
- Step back, and if your dog stays, reward them with a treat. If your dog moves, don’t give a treat and start over.
- Increase the time and distance gradually, always remembering to maintain eye contact with your dog.
Incorporating “Come” Into Your Dog’s Vocabulary
This command could save your dog’s life, providing a reliable recall. The principle here is simple; make coming to you a pleasant experience.
Come With Enthusiasm
- Start indoors in a quiet space.
- Say your dog’s name followed by “Come” in an upbeat tone.
- Once your dog arrives, reward them with a treat and plenty of praise.
- Gradually increase the distance and add in distractions as your dog’s understanding improves.
When to Say “Leave It” — And Have Them Listen
The “Leave It” command can prevent your dog from picking up something dangerous or undesirable. It teaches impulse control and is important in managing their behavior.
The Trading Game
- Start with two different items — one your dog likes the look of and the other a high-value treat.
- Put the lower-value item on the ground, and when your dog goes to investigate, cover it with your foot.
- When your dog diverts their attention from the item, say, “Leave It,” and bring the treat to their nose, then feed it to them.
- Once they’re consistently leaving the item alone, give them the treat from the hand that isn’t holding the reward.
The Significance of “Down”
Teaching your dog to lie down on command is a sign of total obedience and, like the “Stay” command, it’s a strong display of trust and submission from your dog.
The Capture Method
- When your dog naturally goes into the “Lie Down” position, say, “Down,” before giving them the treat.
- Over time, you can guide your dog into the position using a treat and the command word. Remember to reward them when they do it right!
- Gradually add the “Stay” command so your dog remains in the down position until given a release command.
Cracking the Code of “Heel”
The “Heel” command means your dog walks closely beside you without pulling on the leash. This isn’t just a matter of convenience; it can make walks more enjoyable for both of you.
The “Look at Me” Technique
- Start walking with your dog on a loose leash.
- Hold a treat in your hand at your side or close to your leg, where you want your dog’s head to be.
- Say, “Heel” or any word you choose to be your command, and wait until your dog looks up at you to give them the treat and praise.
- Gradually increase the distance and time your dog walks nicely at your side before rewarding them.
Consistency, Patience, and Perseverance
While the specific methods for teaching these basic commands are helpful, the underlying principles of all dog training are consistent. Always be patient, always use positive reinforcement, and never punish. Your dog won’t learn overnight, but with practice and plenty of your time, they will master the art of communication through basic commands.
Remember that training is a dynamic process; your dog’s learning is influenced by how well they feel, their environment, and your own mood. Tailor your approach to best suit your dog’s individual needs, and above all, enjoy the process. Happy training, and may your canine companion learn and flourish under your loving guidance!
