5 Essential Commands Every Dog Should Know

Training your dog is a fulfilling task that not only builds a stronger bond between you and your furry friend but also ensures their safety in various circumstances. As a dog kennel, we understand the importance of a well-trained dog. That’s why we’re sharing our top tips for teaching the five essential commands that every dog should know.

1. Sit

Why It Matters: Teaching your dog to “Sit” is one of the foundational commands. It assists in managing your dog’s behaviour, whether it’s preventing them from leaping onto guests or responding impulsively to sudden distractions. This command also serves as a prerequisite for more advanced training.

How to Teach It:

• Hold a treat close to your dog’s nose to grab their focus.
• Raise your hand, encouraging them to follow the treat with their eyes while naturally lowering their back.
• Once your dog is sitting, use the word “Sit” and reward them with both the treat and praise.
• Practise this frequently in various settings to reinforce the behaviour.

2. Stay

Why It Matters: The “Stay” command is crucial for controlling your dog’s movements, especially in potentially dangerous situations. It instructs your dog to remain in place until you signal otherwise, which is handy when out walking or when visitors arrive at home.

How to Teach It:

• Start by having your dog in a seated position.
• Hold your hand out in front of you, palm facing your dog, and say, “Stay.”
• Take a few steps back while maintaining eye contact.
• If your dog stays, reward them with a treat and praise. If they move, calmly return them to the original spot and try again.
• Gradually increase the distance and duration as they become more reliable with the command.

3. Come

Why It Matters: The “Come” command is vital for ensuring your dog’s safety, enabling you to call them back in potentially hazardous situations.

How to Teach It:

• Begin in a quiet area with minimal distractionsCrouch down to your dog’s level and cheerfully say “Come” As soon as your dog starts moving towards you, reward them with a treat and verbal encouragement.
• Continue practising this in different environments, gradually increasing distractions and distance.

4. Down

Why It Matters: The “Down” command encourages your dog to adopt a calm, submissive position. This is particularly helpful when managing overexcited or anxious behaviour and can also provide comfort during stressful times.

How to Teach It:

• With a treat in hand, bring it close to your dog’s nose to get their attention.
• Slowly lower the treat to the floor, guiding them to lie down.
• As soon as your dog lies down, say “Down” and give them the treat, along with praise.
• Patience is key here, as some dogs may take a little longer to feel comfortable with this position.

5. Leave It

Why It Matters: “Leave It” is essential for preventing your dog from picking up or eating potentially harmful items. This command is particularly useful during walks and helps deter undesirable behaviours, such as scavenging.

How to Teach It:

• Hold a treat in each hand. Show your dog one closed hand with a treat inside and say, “Leave It.”
• Let your dog investigate your hand without giving them the treat.
• Once they stop paying attention and move away, reward them with the treat from your other hand.
• Practise this consistently until your dog quickly responds to the “Leave It” command.
• Eventually, you can progress to using more tempting objects, always rewarding them for leaving the item alone.

The Benefits of Teaching Essential Commands

Starting your dog’s training early provides a solid base for positive behaviour, and it’s never too late to begin. By teaching these essential commands, you’ll create a more balanced relationship with your pet, resulting in a happier, safer, and more responsive companion. With patience and regular practice, your dog will not only become more obedient but will also start enjoying the training, which in turn strengthens your bond even further.