For many years, I’ve assisted individuals in training their canine companions, and as a result, I’ve encountered a recurring set of questions from those new to the process. One of the most frequent inquiries is, “What should I say?” This question often arises when owners want to curb undesirable behavior but are unsure of the appropriate verbal cue. Whether a dog is fixated on a squirrel or barking at passersby, owners often struggle with both the action and the words to use.
It’s understandable to feel flustered when a dog misbehaves. Some owners resort to a jumble of commands like, “Stop it, NO, leave it, come here!” Unfortunately, these scattered commands are often ineffective, and the dog might even perceive them as enthusiastic cheering rather than correction. The good news is that achieving a harmonious life with your dog doesn’t require extensive training. A select few commands can effectively manage most situations. For the average pet owner, I recommend teaching your dog the following six commands: Come, Sit, Down, Heel, Out, and Quiet.
Mastering these six commands will enable you to confidently manage most common scenarios and live harmoniously with your dog. For most pets, this is sufficient. By clearly defining the behavior associated with each command, you can use them individually or in combination to resolve issues. Crucially, consistent follow-through is essential for a well-trained dog.
Defining the Six Critical Dog Training Commands:
- Come: The dog returns to you and stays within close proximity until released. They remain by your side until given a release cue.
- Sit: The dog lowers their rear to the ground and remains seated until released.
- Down: The dog lies down with their belly on the ground and remains in this position until released.
- Heel: The dog stays positioned at your side (traditionally the left, but the right is acceptable). They remain there until released.
- Out: The dog releases whatever is in their mouth.
- Quiet: The dog ceases vocalization.
Consider how these commands can address common problems. For instance, if your dog bolts out an open door, use the “Come” command. To prevent this in the future, teach “Sit” before opening the door. If your dog jumps on visitors, command “Down” before they enter. For a dog grabbing a sock, use “Come” followed by “Out.” To manage a dog barking at a neighbor from the fence line, employ the sequence: “Come,” then “Down,” followed by “Quiet.” If your dog pulls towards another dog or an undesirable item on a walk, use the “Heel” command.
This simplified approach makes it easier for you to react decisively in the moment and for your dog to understand. Dogs often struggle with generalizing information, so teaching a clear, concise meaning for each command facilitates their learning process.
Of course, if you desire to teach your dog a more extensive vocabulary, that’s wonderful! Dogs are capable of understanding a vast number of words, but it requires dedication and consistent practice. For those with limited time, relying on these fundamental commands will provide a solid foundation for effective communication.
Finally, there’s a crucial seventh element: a release cue. This word signals to your dog that their task is complete and they are free to move. Without a release cue, the dog dictates when training ends, which can lead to unsatisfactory results. Words like “Free,” “All Done,” “At Ease,” “Break,” or “That’ll Do” are suitable choices. Integrate this cue from the outset of training so your dog understands they are not under perpetual command and can relax as soon as they hear your chosen word. Happy training!
