Training your dog is one of the most important things you can do as a responsible pet owner. Teaching your dog basic commands not only helps keep them safe, but it also makes them a well-behaved and enjoyable companion. In this article, we’ll go over 10 essential commands every dog should know.
#1 – Sit: Teaching your dog to sit is one of the most basic commands, and it’s also one of the easiest to teach. Simply hold a treat above your dog’s nose and slowly move it back towards their tail. As your dog follows the treat with their eyes, their butt will naturally lower to the ground. Say the word “sit” as their butt touches the ground and reward them with the treat.
#2 – Stay: Once your dog has mastered sitting, you can move on to teaching them to stay. Start by asking your dog to sit, then take a step back and say “stay.” If your dog stays in place, reward them with a treat. Gradually increase the distance between you and your dog as they become more confident in the stay command.
#3 – Come: Teaching your dog to come when called is important for their safety. Begin by saying your dog’s name followed by the word “come” in a cheerful tone. When your dog comes to you, reward them with a treat and praise.
#4 – Down: To teach your dog to lay down on command, ask them to sit first. Then, hold a treat near the ground and slowly move it away from them. As your dog follows the treat, their body will naturally lower to the ground. Say the word “down” as their body touches the ground and reward them with a treat.
#5 – Leave it: Teaching your dog to leave something alone can be helpful in many situations, such as when they’re tempted by food or a toy that’s not theirs. Start by placing a treat on the ground and saying “leave it.” If your dog doesn’t go for the treat, reward them with a different treat and praise.
#6 – Drop it: Teaching your dog to drop something they’re holding can also be important for their safety. Begin by holding a toy in your hand and saying “drop it.” If your dog releases the toy, reward them with a treat and praise.
#7 – Heel: Teaching your dog to walk on a loose leash is important for both their safety and your convenience. Start by holding the leash in your left hand and a treat in your right hand. Hold the treat by your left leg and say “heel.” Reward your dog with the treat if they walk beside you without pulling on the leash.
#8 – Wait: Teaching your dog to wait can be helpful in many situations, such as when you’re opening a door or getting their food ready. Ask your dog to sit or lay down, then say “wait” and take a step back. If your dog stays in place, reward them with a treat and praise.
#9 – Go to bed: Teaching your dog to go to their bed can be helpful for when you need them to stay in one spot, such as when guests arrive. Place a treat on their bed and say “go to bed.” Reward your dog with the treat if they go to their bed.
#10 – Quiet: Teaching your dog to be quiet on command can be helpful if they bark excessively. When your dog starts barking, say “quiet” and hold a treat in front of their nose. When they stop barking, reward them with the treat and praise.
In conclusion, teaching your dog these 10 essential commands can make them a well-behaved and enjoyable companion. Remember to always use positive reinforcement and be patient when training your dog. If you’re struggling with training, consider enrolling in a professional