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Not all dogs need to know advanced training like jumping over obstacles or balancing treats on their nose. However, basic training is important for every dog, regardless of age and breed. Proper training will help you gain better control over your dog while also building a closer bond between the two of you. However, with so many different training lessons out there, it can be difficult to know where to start. The following are behaviors that every dog should learn during training, along with some professional training recommendations.
Keep in mind that not all dog trainers use the same methods for teaching this command, so if one method doesn’t work for you, another approach may be beneficial. However, make sure you focus on positive reinforcement training rather than punishment-based training for the best results. Although punishments may seem effective in some cases, they cause dogs to fear their humans instead of building trust.
Behaviors/Commands Every Dog Should Know
1. Sit down
“Sit” is a basic command that is usually taught to dogs before anything else. This may seem like a silly little trick, but it’s useful because it gets your dog into a position where they’re focused and less likely to cause trouble. If they are sitting, their eyes are on you and they are not jumping around. This is a good starting point for leading other commands. Another good command to pair with this is “touch,” where your dog puts his nose in your hand. “Touch” keeps your dog focused on you and away from distractions.
When teaching a dog to “sit” for the first time, you can hold a treat in front of their nose and then slowly move it up and slightly behind their head. This should cause your dog to put their butt on the ground when trying to look at the treat. Say “sit” during this process, and if your dog sits, reward them.
2. Let it go
This is one of the most important cues because it can prevent your dog from walking into something dangerous. “Leave it” is usually used whenever your dog grabs something he shouldn’t such as random things outside or dangerous human food.
To begin teaching this command, place a few treats in your palm. If your dog goes for treats, close your hand into a fist to prevent them from accessing the food. Once they stop eating without permission, you can continue to put treats on the floor and reward your dog when he successfully leaves them.
3. Drop it
“Drop it” is just as important as leaving it. This is for when your dog either did not respond to leave it and now has an item in his mouth, or you did not catch him in time. Either way, getting your dog to drop something before swallowing it could save their life.
A great way to work on “drop it” is to start by getting them interested in one of their toys. After playing with the toy for a bit, let them drop it by holding out a treat for them to pick up. Repeat these steps several times before adding the cue.
4. Stay
As with other commands, a rock-solid “stay” can save your dog’s life. If they run into a busy street or if they see the neighbor’s cat, telling them to stay in your yard is better for everyone involved. Using the “stay” command is another way to prevent dogs from running off to pick up something they shouldn’t, such as a table scrap that falls on the floor.
When teaching “stay”, start with small distances each time. For example, you can use the command and go back a few steps. Many owners clap their hands while saying the hint. Then, wait a few seconds and reward your dog if they keep their distance. Continue to increase the number of steps you take as your dog gets used to it.
5. Watch Me
This important cue teaches your dog to focus on you, no matter what. This is particularly useful for dogs who are reactive or nervous, because it gives them something to do and keeps them watching you instead of fixating on something they shouldn’t, like a squirrel or another dog
To teach “watch me,” start by having your dog sit. Then, hold a treat near their nose and gently bring it to your face. Reward your dog if his eyes are looking at you during the process. Once they get that, try it without the treat and reward your dog if they look at you on command.
6. Come on
We all know why “arriving” is important. No one wants to lose their dog or have to chase them for an hour at the dog park. Your dog should run in you, not far from you, to be achieved with “come”.
Getting your dog to come to you can be easy if you hold their favorite toy or treat, so start with that. It is best to train your dog to come to you in a distraction-free environment. Then, you can work your way up to testing the “come” command when there are distractions around, like other people and dogs.
7. Heels
For dogs in an urban setting, a “close,” “with me,” or “heel” cue is useful for walking on sidewalks. This prevents them from being tripped over by passers-by, bicycles, skateboarders, etc. Plus, they can’t leave and are focused on you.
To get your dog to “heel” or sit next to you, you can start by guiding your dog to that spot with a treat. Once your dog is sitting next to you, you can try walking one at a time. For each step your dog follows, reward them. You may have to guide them a few times before they begin to understand.
8. Off
The “off” cue (for when your dog jumps on a person, couch, counter, etc.) is good to know even if your dog doesn’t jump much. If your dog jumps towards a hot stove, a sharp knife, an elderly person, or a small child, that can create a disaster. Even the gentlest dog can cause injuries by jumping, so don’t encourage them to jump and use a command to prevent the behavior.
When your dog puts their paws on something they shouldn’t, say the command and entice them with a treat if necessary. Then, reward them when their feet return to the ground. For this to be successful, you will need to use the command every time your dog jumps, so keep a close eye on your dog’s behavior.
Need Training Help?
Teaching your dog these behaviors takes a lot of patience and consistency. However, some dogs are more difficult to train than others, so if you’re having trouble doing it on your own, it’s time to contact a professional trainer. Trainers can give you personalized tips that will help set your dog up for success.
However, it can be difficult to find time for dog training classes and they are often expensive. Thus, many dog parents are opting for online dog training courses that allow them to take training classes anytime from the comfort of their home. If you run into any issues during an online training session, you can talk to an online trainer for help.
If online dog training sounds interesting to you, here are some companies to consider:
Working with a dog trainer, either online or in person, can help your dog pick up new commands more quickly. While training, be patient and reward your dog whenever they do what they are supposed to do. Even after your dog has mastered the behaviors, continue to work on training regularly for the best results. Remember, training should be a fund bonding activity for you and your dog in addition to improving their behaviors.