How To Train Your Dog: Essential Commands And Tips

Not all dogs like to play with their food, but some of them do. In this case, the best thing you can do is to teach your furry friend to stop eating stuff from the ground.

This will protect your dog from potential health issues caused by eating unsafe things and you – from spending millions in vet clinics.

The key to implementing every command is to repeat it over and over again along with giving your dog treats – this way, your dog will listen to you and stay happy.

To teach your pup to stop, put some treats on the ground near him and say “Stop” at the moment when your dog tries to eat them. You can also gently stop him by the collar so he doesn’t move any further.

When the dog listens to you, praise him and give him a treat. Repeat this process until your dog stops eating treats that are on the floor.

Once he does that, you can try doing the same with other things, like plastic toys, or moving to another location, such as a park.

You can also try applying this command in different situations – for example, when another person comes into the room or when there is a doorbell ringing.

The “Stop” command will also work if you have a dog that likes digging holes in your garden or chewing on shoes.

It will help you keep your pet safe and under control in many situations – for example, when he is near the road or if you are traveling with him on public transportation.

Just make sure to train your dog in different locations, so that he learns not to be distracted by anything.

If your dog doesn’t know the “Stop” command or something goes wrong, and he does not listen to you, you may find him eating dangerous stuff from the ground – for example, chicken bones (read here why they are dangerous for your pup).

To deal with the situation quickly and effectively, teach your dog the “Drop it” command – it will make him drop anything he’s eating at the moment.

It will take you some time to teach your dog how to do this command, but don’t worry – that is definitely doable.

First, let him learn that the word drop earns him a reward – simply say it, and then give your dog some treats. Practice it for some time in a few short sessions, and move to the next step.

Give your dog his toy (preferably not his favorite one, as he will be more likely to release it), and, after a few seconds of playing with it, say the word “drop” and place some treats on the ground.

Allow your dog to swap his toy for the treats willingly – don’t take it back from him. Practice this for some time in a few sessions.

Finally, repeat the process, but this time, place the food on the floor only after your pup gives you the toy.

After he learns that, try doing that with a toy he likes a little more and repeat the process in short sessions until he can drop anything you’d like him to.

This command is one of the most important ones that every dog owner needs to know how to implement. It is essential for keeping your pet under control during walks or when guests arrive.

The best thing about this command is that it is pretty easy to teach to your dog – although it does require some patience from your side as well as persistence.

First, take a treat and show it to your dog. Then, say “come” – make sure to do that when you know that the dog is moving towards you.

When your pup learns to do that, you can slightly change the process – ask your dog to come before showing him the tret. When he listens to the command, reward him with a treat.

The key here is to set the learning process in an environment where your dog won’t be distracted – for example, inside your house. Take away all the toys from the room, so the dog focuses solely on you.

“Sit” is a fundamental command for keeping your dog under control. It helps you control the dog’s body language, and it makes him listen to your commands.

When you are preparing food or talking to someone on the street, this command will help you keep your dog from jumping around.

If your puppy doesn’t know how to sit yet, you should teach him how to do that as soon as possible. Start by showing your dog a treat, and then wait until he sits in front of you.

Then, say “Sit” in a firm voice. When he lowers himself down, reward him with a treat.

Practice this in short sessions until your dog learns how to sit on his own – for better effect, take a few steps backward or sideways to encourage your dog to stand up and sit again.

Practice this in different places, so that your dog learns to sit when you ask him to, regardless of where he is.

Remember to never physically put your pup into the sitting position – this can be very confusing to him.

When your dog learns to sit, it’s time to teach him how to lay down. This command will help you keep your dog settled down on the floor or on the ground outside.

To teach your dog how to do that, show him the treat and command them to sit. Then, let him sniff the treat and slowly lure him into the lying position (for example, by moving the treat in between his front paws). As soon as he lies down, praises him and gives him a treat.

Repeat a few times, adding the command “Down”. Then, do the same without showing your dog the treat – give it to him only after he listens to you. Repeat the process a few times in several sessions and then try this command in different situations.

Another important command that every dog needs to learn is “Stay.” It will help you keep your dog from jumping on people or running away from you – and that is definitely something you want to avoid.

Begin with your dog sitting or standing in the position you want him to – for example, command him to sit or lay down. Make sure the dog is calm – it will be easier for him to avoid distractions.

Then, say “Stay” and give your dog a hand signal – for example, a flat palm facing away from you. Wait a few seconds, take the hand signal away, and give your dog a treat.

Repeat this process in several different sessions until your pup can do what you want him to without getting up at least 5 times in a row.

Then, increase the time gradually. Remember that every dog is different – for some, you will be able to increase by just a second, for the others – by even half a minute.

Watch your dog and act accordingly – make sure he is comfortable every time you make him wait for the reward.

Finally, put some distance between your dog and you – each time you ask him to stay, take a few steps away from him and then return and reward him.

Repeat until you can quickly pop up of sight and then come back without your dog moving. After he can do that at home perfectly, move to another location – such as a park.

Conclusion

Being a dog owner, you need to be able to control your pet. To do that, you need to teach him how to listen and obey your commands.

Luckily, the process is not as hard as it may seem – once you learn the key principles behind teaching your pup new commands, you’ll be able to do it in no time at all.

All you need is patience and persistence – and these tips will assist you in this matter. Now, go ahead and practice the commands with your pup – try to make it a fun game and enjoy your time together.