Training your dog is an important part of being a responsible pet owner. It helps your pup understand what is expected of them and keeps them safe in any situation. There are many commands you can teach your pup, but here are seven of the most important ones. The first command is
“sit”
.This is one of the most basic commands and is essential for teaching your pup social manners. To begin, use the “decoy” method. Grab a treat that your pup loves and hold it close to their nose. Move it up and above their head while saying “sit”.
Usually, their nose will follow the treat and their body will automatically sit down. As soon as their furry butt touches the floor, say “OK” and give them the treat. Repeat this until they understand what you want them to do. Over time, don't use a treat every time; instead, give them a kiss, a compliment or a toy.Another practical command is
“put”
.This is ideal for all dogs, but especially for large dogs. When your pup learns to be comfortable in a leaning position, you can take them to the park or to a sidewalk cafe. A dog that relaxes in public is not a threat to other people or pets and gives you the freedom to enjoy a good book or catch up with your friends.Never confuse “down” with “off”. Use the
“turn off”
command to teach your pup that it's not appropriate to jump on people or climb on furniture.This command is important to instruct your pup to remain calm when receiving greetings and to keep all four feet on the ground. Your pup is a nuisance if they throw you down the street.Even the most exuberant dog must learn to walk or jog at their own pace. There are many different training strategies you can use to teach your pup to walk next to you and to stop and sit when you stop moving. Training a dog requires the use of command “signals”, which are used to help your pup understand what you want them to do.
These commands guide your pup to successful social behavior and keep them away from danger in any situation.The
“down”
command also uses the decoy technique. Put your pup in a “sit” in front of you. Then, hold a treat close to their nose, but not close enough for them to pick it up. Move the treat down in front of them.Their nose will follow them until they are lying down on the floor. As soon as they are completely “down”, that is, with their whole body on the floor, say “OK” and give them the treat. Then, start combining the command with a hand signal, such as extending your hand with your palm facing down and lowering it while pronouncing the word “down”.The
“no”
command is vitally important because it can save a dog's life. There are several ways to teach this command.Start by simply saying the name of your pup followed by “come” and give them a treat when they get to your side. This will teach your pup that all good things “come to puppies” when they hear this word. You can also use a long leash to let you know they won't run away from you.The next step is to get your pup to sit or lie down. Sit a few meters away and say the word “come” and spread out the treat.
Give it to them when they're around and remember to use the word “good” as reinforcement. Gradually increase the distance until they reliably understand what you want them to do.Another method is to sit on the floor a few meters away and reach out with the palm of your hand facing them. Say the word “come” or “touch”. Most dogs will put their nose on your hand.
When they do, give them the treat. Use your hand as a tool along with the command.Make sure you never use the “come” command for anything your pup perceives as negative; do not use it, for example, to give medicines to your puppy. Your pup will come to you reliably if they understand that this results in something good, such as kisses, toys, pets or treats.Finally, use
“leave it”
. This command teaches your pup not to pick up anything off of the ground without permission.Put a treat on the floor and cover it with your hand; have another treat in your other hand that is more attractive to your pup. As soon as they smell the treat that is on the floor, under your hand and try to pick it up, say “leave it” and show them the other treat.Wait until they stop trying to pick up the candy that is on the floor, say “fine” and give them the better deal with your other hand. Then do this exercise standing but put your pup on a leash; cover the treat on the floor with your foot; use the leash if you accidentally drop the candy or they try to pick it up.Tell them to “leave it” before they get close enough for you not be able too grab it back from them.These seven commands are essential for teaching your pup how to behave in any situation; from walking calmly next to you in public places, understanding when it's time for rest or learning not pick up anything off of the ground without permission.<.
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