Training your dog is one of the most fulfilling aspects of pet ownership, laying the foundation for a lifetime of happiness, love, and safety. Essential commands such as “sit,” “down,” and “stay” not only promote good behavior at home but also help your dog become a well-rounded canine citizen in public spaces. This guide presents 21 fundamental dog commands to teach your furry best friend, starting with the basics and progressing to more advanced tricks.
Consistent practice is key; aim for short, 10-15 minute training sessions two to three times a day. While it may take a couple of weeks for your dog to fully grasp these commands, the effort will pay off immeasurably.
Basic Obedience Commands
1. Sit
The “sit” command is a cornerstone of dog training and is useful in countless daily situations, from greeting guests to receiving treats.
To teach “sit,” hold a treat in your fist and position it above your dog’s head. Slowly move the treat back over their head. As your dog naturally lowers into a sit to follow the treat, say “sit” and immediately reward them.
A dog sitting patiently, looking up at its owner.
2. Watch Me
“Watch Me” is a crucial command, especially for directing your dog’s attention in distracting environments. It helps prevent unwanted reactions to stimuli like passing cars or squirrels.
Begin by holding a treat near your dog’s nose. Slowly move the treat towards your face, stopping when it’s near your nose. Say “watch me” and reward your pup for maintaining eye contact.
A dog looking intently at its owner's face.
3. Down
While sometimes challenging to teach, the “down” command is highly valuable, helping to calm an overexcited dog.
Present a treat with a strong scent near your dog’s nose. As they sniff it, lower the treat towards the floor, encouraging your dog to follow. When their belly touches the ground, say “down” and give them the treat.
A dog lying down calmly on the floor.
4. Stay
“Stay” is arguably the most critical command for your dog’s safety and the safety of others. Teaching it early is paramount.
Start with your dog in a “sit” position. Slowly back away. If your dog moves towards you, say “no” and guide them back into a sit. Once they remain still, say “stay,” then reward them and use a “come” command.
A dog holding a 'stay' position while its owner stands a few feet away.
5. Wait
Similar to “stay,” the “wait” command is specifically for managing your dog’s excitement when people enter your home. It prevents them from rushing the door.
Ideally, use two people for this command. Have one person stand outside the door while the other stays inside with the dog. The person outside opens the door. As the dog begins to move, the person inside says “wait” as the door is closed by the person outside. Repeat this process, rewarding your dog for remaining in place.
A dog sitting patiently by the door, waiting for permission to enter.
6. Come
“Come” is a vital command for your dog’s safety, potentially saving their life if they wander off or enter a hazardous area.
While your dog is on a leash, say the command “come” while giving a light tug. Reward them with a treat when they reach you. This command requires consistent daily practice.
A dog happily running towards its owner.
7. Off
The “off” command is useful for keeping furniture free of dog hair and for general politeness when visiting others.
Hold a treat in your fist and present it to your dog’s nose. Keep your fist closed as they try to get the treat. When they back away, say “off” and give them the treat. Practice this command around furniture to help with association.
A dog being gently redirected away from a piece of furniture.
8. Drop It
“Drop it” is an essential command that prevents your dog from ingesting harmful items or damaging your belongings.
You’ll need two identical toys for this command. Give your dog one toy. Then, present a second toy and say “drop it.” Reward your dog with the new toy once they release the first one. This can also be adapted using a toy and a treat.
A dog dropping a toy to receive a treat.
9. Leave It
“Leave it” is invaluable during walks, teaching your dog to ignore tempting or potentially dangerous items on the ground.
Hold a treat in each hand. Show your dog one treat, then close that hand. Keep the closed fist with the treat near your dog while saying “leave it.” As they lose interest, reward them with the treat from your other hand.
A dog looking away from a treat on the floor, indicating it has learned 'leave it'.
10. No
“No” is a versatile command used to redirect your dog from undesirable behaviors.
With your dog on a leash, place a treat on the floor. As you walk your dog towards it and they attempt to sniff it, say “no” and gently pull the leash away. Reward your dog with a different treat and repeat this exercise frequently.
A dog pausing its approach to a treat after hearing the command 'no'.
11. Heel
Establishing proper walking habits is crucial, especially when dogs are young. The “heel” command ensures your dog walks calmly beside you.
During walks, periodically ask your dog to “sit.” Then, hold a treat at your dog’s head level and begin walking, keeping them close with the leash. Repeat the “heel” command and reward them with the treat.
A dog walking calmly by its owner's side on a leash.
12. Handle Your Business
Choose a consistent phrase, such as “go potty” or “outside,” to signal when it’s time for your dog to relieve themselves outdoors. This aids in the housetraining process.
Take your dog outside frequently and use your chosen phrase each time. When they successfully eliminate outdoors, offer enthusiastic praise and a treat. House training typically takes a few months to master.
A dog relieving itself outdoors in a designated area.
Advanced and Fun Commands
13. Take It
This command can be a fun trick or useful for teaching your dog to pick up objects.
Hold one of your dog’s favorite toys and a treat. Present the toy and say “take it.” Reward your dog with the treat once they take the toy.
A dog taking a toy from its owner's hand.
14. Bed
Teaching your dog to go to their designated “bed” is a useful command that should be associated with positive experiences.
On a leash, lead your dog to their sleeping area. Say “bed” and give them a treat once they are in place. Ensure the bed is a comfortable space for rest.
A dog settling down on its bed.
15. Leash
This command helps your dog learn to navigate their leash without getting tangled.
Wrap the leash loosely around one of your dog’s front paws. Gradually increase the loop size and gently pull it towards you. As your dog lifts their paw to free themselves, say “leash” energetically and offer a treat. Repeat this often.
A dog stepping over its leash in a training exercise.
16. Lap
Teaching your dog to place their paws in your lap can be a cute trick and practical for cleaning dirty paws.
Sit in a chair and place your hand on your lap, holding a treat. Encourage your dog by patting your lap and saying “lap.” Reward them generously when they place their paws on your lap. Be aware that this may be challenging if your dog has been trained not to jump on people.
A dog placing its paws gently on its owner's lap.
17. Speak
The “speak” command can be a fun trick and also helps in locating your dog if they are out of sight.
Observe your dog and say “speak” just before they bark naturally. Offer a treat immediately after they bark. It’s important to say “speak” loudly and consistently to avoid confusion with random barking.
A dog barking on command.
18. Quiet
Once your dog knows “speak,” teaching “quiet” is the next step, useful for managing excessive barking.
Have your dog “speak,” then loudly say “quiet” over their bark. When they stop barking, offer a treat with enthusiastic praise. Consistent repetition will help your dog learn this command.
A dog sitting calmly and quietly after being told to be quiet.
19. Shake
“Shake” is a delightful trick that, while not essential, provides a fun bonding experience.
Have your dog sit. Gently take one of their paws, say “shake,” and give them a treat. Hold their paw for a moment, repeat “shake,” and offer another treat.
A dog offering its paw for a 'shake' command.
20. Car
With proper training, most dogs can learn to enjoy car rides. Making the experience comfortable with treats and toys can enhance their enjoyment.
Take your dog to your car with a leash. Place a treat inside the car where you want them to sit and say “car.” Encourage your dog to get in. With practice, they will associate the command with enjoyable rides.
A dog looking out of a car window during a ride.
21. Belly
The “belly” command is a fun way to bond with your dog and build trust, often leading to enjoyable belly rubs.
Start with your dog in the “down” position. With a treat, lure them to roll onto their side. Move the treat along their head while encouraging them, then continue moving it sideways while saying “belly.”
A dog rolling onto its side, exposing its belly for a rub.
Teaching these commands as early as possible is crucial for your dog’s lifelong well-being, contributing to their mental health and ability to socialize effectively. At Dog Care Story, we emphasize responsible ownership, which includes preparing for your puppy’s physical health needs. Explore resources on preparing for your puppy’s future.
For those seeking in-depth training guidance and strategies to ensure success for both you and your pup, consider exploring resources like SpiritDog Training.
