Training your dog is one of the most rewarding aspects of pet ownership. A well-trained dog is not only a pleasure to be around but also safer and happier. Here are the ten essential commands every dog should learn, providing both practical and safety benefits.
1. Sit
The “sit” command is one of the most fundamental commands and a great starting point for training. It’s useful in many situations, such as when you need your dog to stay calm or wait patiently. Teaching your dog to sit is relatively straightforward: hold a treat close to its nose, move your hand up, and as the dog follows the treat with its nose, its bottom will naturally lower to the ground. As soon as your dog sits, say “sit” and reward it with the treat.
2. Stay
The “stay” command is essential for your dog’s safety, especially in potentially dangerous situations like crossing the street. To teach “stay,” have your dog sit, then open your palm in front of you and say “stay.” Take a few steps back. If your dog stays, reward it with a treat. Gradually increase the distance and duration of the stay command.
3. Come
The “come” command is vital for your dog’s safety and your peace of mind. It ensures that your dog returns to you, preventing it from running into dangerous situations. To teach “come,” start by putting a leash on your dog. Back up a few steps and say “come” in a cheerful tone, gently pulling on the leash. When your dog comes to you, reward it with praise and a treat.
4. Down
The “down” command is another essential for managing your dog’s behavior, especially in social settings. It helps keep your dog calm and controlled. To teach “down,” hold a treat in your hand, close to your dog’s nose. Move your hand down to the floor, and as your dog follows the treat, move your hand along the ground. Once your dog is in the down position, say “down” and reward it.
5. Leave It
The “leave it” command can protect your dog from ingesting harmful objects or food. It’s a crucial command for their safety. To teach “leave it,” place a treat in both hands. Show your dog one closed fist with the treat inside and say “leave it.” Let your dog sniff, lick, or paw at your hand but ignore it. Once your dog stops, give it the treat from the other hand.
6. Heel
The “heel” command ensures that your dog walks beside you without pulling on the leash. This command makes walks more enjoyable and safer. To teach “heel,” start with your dog on a leash at your left side. Hold a treat in your right hand and say “heel” as you start walking. Use the treat to keep your dog’s attention and reward it for staying by your side.
7. Wait
The “wait” command is useful for preventing your dog from bolting out of doors or cars. It’s similar to “stay” but is usually used for shorter periods. To teach “wait,” have your dog sit or stand, open a door slightly, and say “wait.” If your dog tries to move, close the door. Repeat until your dog waits patiently, then give a release command like “okay” and reward it.
8. Drop It
The “drop it” command is essential for retrieving objects your dog shouldn’t have. It can prevent dangerous situations and damage. To teach “drop it,” offer your dog a toy. When it takes the toy, offer a treat in exchange. Say “drop it” as your dog releases the toy for the treat. Practice with various objects to reinforce the command.
9. Off
The “off” command is important for discouraging jumping on people or furniture. It helps maintain manners and safety. To teach “off,” use a firm but gentle tone. When your dog jumps, turn away and ignore it. If it continues, use a treat to lure it off the person or furniture while saying “off,” and then reward it once all four paws are on the ground.
10. No
The “no” command is a general command to stop unwanted behaviors immediately. It should be used sparingly and in conjunction with positive reinforcement for good behavior. To teach “no,” use a firm but calm voice when your dog engages in undesirable behavior. Redirect your dog to a more appropriate activity and reward it for complying.
