Mastering the Essentials: Teaching Your Puppy Basic Commands

Teaching your puppy some fundamental commands—like “sit,” “stay,” and “come”—can significantly enhance your bond and interaction. These commands are not just about obedience; they’re about building a language between you and your furry companion.

Starting Early

Begin teaching these commands as soon as you bring your pup home. Say the command and reward successful completion with treats and verbal praise. Consistency is key, so make sure each command is followed by the same reward. If your puppy doesn’t obey, don’t punish him. Instead, try again and be patient.

Sit

The “sit” command is often one of the easiest for dogs to learn, making it a great starting point. It’s also a fantastic segue into more complex commands like “stay” and “come.”

To teach “sit,” kneel in front of your dog and say the command. Hold a treat in your hand and move it upwards so your puppy naturally lowers his bottom to the ground. When he sits, give him the treat and lots of praise. Repeat this several times until he can do it without your help.

As he gets the hang of it, introduce a release word like “okay” to encourage him to lie down instead of jumping up. Once he can stay in the “sit” position for a few seconds, practice from a distance to build control and duration.

When your dog can maintain a “sit-stay” for 15 to 20 seconds, start delaying the treat delivery to build his patience. Practice this several times, gradually increasing distance and varying the duration until he can hold a solid “sit-stay” 80 percent of the time.

Stay

Training your puppy to “stay” is crucial for basic obedience. This command teaches them to remain in place until released and is invaluable in numerous situations.

Start by saying “stay” in a calm but firm voice as you place a treat or toy in front of them. Allow them to take it but don’t let them move away until you say “okay” or “release.” Gradually increase the duration of the “stay” once they understand the command.

Next, increase the distance between you and your pup. Stand a few feet away and give the “stay” command. Reward them if they remain in place. Gradually increase the distance, always rewarding good behavior.

Finally, teach them to “stay” in different environments. Start in a familiar room and then move to various locations. You may need to repeat the process at each new spot until your pup is comfortable staying anywhere.

This command is critical for emergencies, preventing them from running into the street or chasing children at the park.

Come

Training your puppy to come when called is not just enjoyable but potentially life-saving. With consistent practice and patience, you can achieve this.

First, choose a distinct word or phrase for your “come” cue. Practice by calling your pup from a short distance and rewarding them when they come. Gradually increase the distance.

Use a happy, encouraging tone when calling your pup. Ensure they aren’t distracted by other stimuli. If they wander off, gently remind them to come back.

When they come to you, reward them with a treat or a fun game. This reinforces the behavior, teaching them that coming when called is a good thing. With time and practice, your pup will learn this critical behavior.

Leave It

Teaching your puppy the “Leave It” command is essential for their safety. This command prevents them from eating dangerous items or running off.

Start by ensuring your pup is familiar with “sit,” “stay,” and “come.” Once comfortable, begin teaching “Leave It.”

Have your pup sit and stay while you hold a treat in your closed fist. Tell them to “Leave It.” If they try to get the treat, repeat the command. Once they stop trying, praise them and give them a different treat.

Use “Leave It” in various situations. If they try to grab a stick during a walk, tell them to “Leave It” and reward them for obeying. If they try to eat something off the floor, tell them to “Leave It” and distract them with a toy or treat.

With patience and consistency, your pup will learn to obey the “Leave It” command.

Down

Training your puppy to “Down” can be both fun and rewarding. Start slowly and build up gradually. Sit your pup on a flat surface and have them stay. Praise and reward them once they are in position.

Use a command like “Down” or “Lay Down” in a firm but gentle tone. Reward them once they are in the down position. Repeat until they consistently obey the command.

Once they respond consistently, introduce distractions. Have them stay in the down position while you move around them. Reward them if they stay in position. As they improve, add more distractions.

With enough practice, your pup should stay in the down position even with distractions or when you’re away. This command is crucial for their safety and can be a fun, rewarding process for both of you.

In conclusion, these basic commands not only ensure your puppy’s safety but also strengthen your bond. Remember, patience and consistency are your best tools in this journey. Happy training!