Canine Command Basics: Sit, Stay, and Come

Establishing a solid foundation of basic commands like “Sit,” “Stay,” and “Come” is crucial for a well-behaved and happy dog. This guide offers a step-by-step approach to teaching these essential commands using positive reinforcement techniques.

Teaching “Sit”

1. Lure with a Treat: Hold a high-value treat in front of your dog’s nose.
2. Move the Treat Upward and Backward: Slowly move the treat up and over your dog’s head towards their back. This motion naturally encourages them to lower their rear into a sitting position.
3. Say “Sit”: As your dog begins to sit, clearly say the word “Sit.”
4. Reward Immediately: The instant their rear touches the ground, give them the treat and offer enthusiastic verbal praise like “Good Sit!”
5. Repeat: Practice this several times in short sessions (5-10 minutes) throughout the day.
6. Fade the Lure: Gradually reduce your reliance on the treat by using the hand gesture without the treat present. Eventually, just say “Sit.”

Teaching “Stay”

The “Stay” command builds on “Sit.” Your dog should reliably sit before you introduce this command.

1. Start in “Sit”: Have your dog sit.
2. Say “Stay”: Clearly say “Stay” in a firm but gentle voice.
3. Hand Gesture: Hold your hand up in front of you, palm facing your dog. This visual cue reinforces the command.
4. Short Duration: Initially, only expect them to stay for a second or two.
5. Reward: Immediately reward with a treat and praise if they stay in position.
6. Gradually Increase Duration: Slowly increase the duration of the “Stay,” adding a few seconds each time.
7. Add Distance: Once your dog can “Stay” for a reasonable duration, begin to increase the distance between you and your dog. Take a small step back, then return and reward. Gradually increase the distance.
8. Correct Breaks: If your dog breaks the “Stay,” gently say “No” or “Uh-oh,” return them to the “Sit” position, and start again with a shorter duration or distance.

Teaching “Come”

A reliable “Come” is vital for your dog’s safety. Make this command the most positive and rewarding experience possible.

1. Start Close: Begin in a quiet, enclosed space with your dog on a leash.
2. Say “Come”: Say your dog’s name followed by “Come” in a happy, enthusiastic tone.
3. Gentle Leash Guidance: Gently tug on the leash to encourage them to come towards you.
4. Reward Enthusiastically: When they reach you, shower them with praise, affection, and a high-value treat. Make it a joyful reunion!
5. Practice Off-Leash (Safely): Once they reliably come on-leash, practice off-leash in a safe, enclosed area.
6. Use a Recall Whistle (Optional): Consider using a distinct whistle sound paired with the “Come” command. Dogs often respond well to the unique sound.
7. Never Punish for Coming: Even if your dog takes a long time to come, never punish them when they finally arrive. This will associate “Come” with negativity, making them less likely to obey in the future.

Important Considerations:

• Consistency: Use the same commands and hand gestures every time.
• Patience: Learning takes time. Be patient and understanding with your dog.
• Positive Reinforcement: Always use positive reinforcement methods like treats, praise, and affection.
• Short Sessions: Keep training sessions short and engaging to maintain your dog’s focus.
• Generalization: Practice these commands in various environments to help your dog generalize their understanding.

With consistent training and patience, you can successfully teach your dog these essential commands, strengthening your bond and creating a well-behaved companion.

1140×792 sit stay fox chapel publishing from foxchapelpublishing.com

1300×1320 dog behaviourist giving obedience training concept girl teaching sit stay from www.alamy.com

1200×1200 daily drop visit from caninecommandgc.com

1600×1614 canine trainer teaching dog pet owner training sit command purebred doggy gesturing from www.dreamstime.com

1024×768 canine command dog training from gobackt.com

800×450 canine command assist captain crimson vindictus from vindictus.nexon.net

1200×1200 bookings archives canine command gc dog training gold coast from caninecommandgc.com

1600×1150 young woman teaching dog sit stay stock photo image gesture countryside from www.dreamstime.com

1024×1024 canine enrichment creating wholesome environment dog from caninecommandgc.com

750×500 teach puppy sit stay love home happy doodle from www.happygodoodle.com

825×447 teach dog stay brandon mcmillans canine minded from www.canineminded.com

1280×720 teach puppy sit stay pie from k9pie.com

977×1390 illustration man teaching dog basic command sit stock photo alamy from www.alamy.com

1080×1080 introducing janet poppy dachshund canine command gold coast from caninecommandgc.com

1024×1024 transforming lives allison sami reactive dog training duo from caninecommandgc.com

2560×1717 parkites journey puppy love canine command townlift park city news from townlift.com

500×500 stream p file excel formulas functions basics step step guide examples from soundcloud.com

1024×1325 sailpoint tutorial learn basics step step guide powerpoint id from www.slideserve.com

506×700 compu computer basics step step grade order book mart wll from bookmartme.com

474×315 ultimate dog training commands list common advanced from canineweekly.com

1200×675 thomas joseph canine command crossword clue letters june answer revealed news from news.rojgarlive.com

1200×1600 prime video winsor pilates basics step step from www.primevideo.com

537×537 buy venmark blue hats bravery canine command figurine goodwillfinds from www.goodwillfinds.com

980×980 canine command mastery crucial training keys dogs success from www.dogbizness.com.au

800×531 tech canine command cybernetic canine mounted front sleek workstation multiple from www.dreamstime.com

1600×1213 fitness instructor teaching sit ups stock image image happy abdominal from www.dreamstime.com

600×576 teaching dog thriftyfun from www.thriftyfun.com

1545×2000 draw horse easy step step fkakidstv from fkakidstv.com

300×450 learn basic crochet stitches step step absolute beginners easy steps pocket from www.pocketyarnlings.com

1280×720 dog training sit stay youtube from www.youtube.com

1280×720 practicing command dog training basics canine performance youtube from www.youtube.com