Training your dog is a profoundly rewarding experience, laying the foundation for a life filled with happiness, love, and safety for both you and your canine companion. Essential commands such as “sit,” “down,” and “stay” not only foster good behavior at home but also cultivate a well-mannered “good canine citizen” in public. This guide compiles the 21 most crucial commands every dog owner should teach their furry friend, starting with foundational commands and progressing to more advanced tricks.
Consistent practice, ideally two to three 10-15 minute sessions daily, is key. While it may take a couple of weeks for your dog to fully grasp these commands, the lifelong benefits are immeasurable.
Foundational Commands for a Well-Behaved Dog
1. Sit
The ubiquitous “sit” command is invaluable for daily interactions, whether it’s greeting guests or receiving a treat. To teach this, hold a treat above your dog’s head, moving it back until they naturally crouch. As they lower into a sit, say “sit” and reward them.
2. Watch Me
This command is particularly useful in distracting environments. To train “watch me,” hold a treat near your dog’s nose, then slowly bring it towards your face. When the treat is near your nose, say “watch me” and reward your dog. This helps them focus on you amidst external stimuli like passing cars or scurrying squirrels.
3. Down
While “down” can be more challenging to teach, it’s a highly beneficial command for managing overexcitement. Present a strong-smelling treat to your dog and guide it down to the floor. As your dog follows the treat into a lying position, say “down” and offer the reward.
4. Stay
Arguably the most critical command for your dog’s safety and the well-being of others, “stay” should be taught early. Begin with your dog in a “sit” position. Slowly back away, repeating “no” and guiding them back to a sit if they move towards you. Once they remain still, say “stay,” reward them, and then give the “come” command.
5. Wait
Similar to “stay,” “wait” is specifically for managing your dog’s excitement when people enter your home. To teach this, have one person stand by the door while the other stays inside with the dog. As the person outside opens the door, the person inside says “wait” as the door is closed if the dog attempts to move forward. Consistent practice and rewards for compliance are essential.
6. Come
“Come” is a life-saving command that should be taught as early as possible. For training, attach a leash to your dog and give the command while applying gentle tension to the leash. Reward your dog immediately when they respond and come to you. This command requires consistent daily practice.
7. Off
The “off” command is useful for keeping furniture hair-free and for ensuring your dog shows proper etiquette in others’ homes. Hold a treat in a closed fist in front of your dog. As they try to get the treat, keep your fist closed. When they disengage, say “off” and give them the treat. Practicing around furniture helps reinforce the command.
8. Drop It
This essential command prevents your dog from ingesting harmful items or damaging valuables. To teach “drop it,” use two identical toys. Offer one toy to your dog, then present a second toy while saying “drop it.” Reward them when they release the first toy to take the second. This can also be practiced with a toy and a treat.
9. Leave It
“Leave it” is invaluable during walks, preventing your dog from investigating potentially dangerous or inappropriate items. Hold a treat in each hand. Present one treat, then close your hand into a fist and hide the other treat behind your back. As your dog shows disinterest in the fist, say “leave it” and then reward them with the hidden treat.
10. No
The versatile “no” command helps deter your dog from mischievous or dangerous behavior. To train this, place a treat on the floor while your dog is on a leash. As they approach the treat, say “no” and gently pull the leash towards you. Reward them with a separate treat for disengaging from the floor treat.
Intermediate and Advanced Commands
11. Heel
Establishing proper walking habits is crucial, especially when dogs are young. To teach “heel,” periodically have your dog “sit” during walks. Show them a treat, then begin walking with your dog on a shorter leash, holding the treat near their head. Repeat “heel” as you walk, and reward them upon successful compliance.
12. Handle Your Business
Choosing a consistent verbal cue for your dog to eliminate outdoors is vital for housetraining. Take your dog out frequently, using your chosen phrase (e.g., “go potty”) each time. Offer enthusiastic praise and a treat immediately after they relieve themselves outside. This process may take several months to perfect.
13. Take It
This command is 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,” giving your dog the treat as they take the toy.
14. Bed
Teaching your dog to go to their “bed” should be a positive experience, not a punishment. Lead your dog to their designated resting spot with a leash, say “bed,” and offer a treat once they are in place.
15. Leash
When your dog inevitably gets tangled in their leash, this command can help. Gently wrap the leash around their front paw, gradually loosening the loop. As they lift their paw to free themselves, say “leash” energetically and offer a treat. Frequent practice is recommended.
16. Lap
This charming trick involves teaching your dog to place their paws in your lap. Sit in a chair, present a treat, and pat your lap while saying “lap.” Continue encouraging your dog until they place their paws on your lap, then reward them generously. Be mindful that this may require extra training if your dog has been taught not to jump on people.
17. Speak
The “speak” command can be a fun trick and also helpful in locating your dog if they are out of sight. Try to say “speak” just before your dog barks naturally, then reward them. Ensure you say the command loudly and clearly to avoid confusion.
18. Quiet
Once your dog knows “speak,” teaching “quiet” becomes easier. After they bark, enthusiastically say “quiet” above their barks. Reward them immediately when they cease barking. Consistent repetition throughout the day will help them learn.
19. Shake
“Shake” is a delightful trick that, while lacking practical utility, offers a fun bonding opportunity. Have your dog sit, then gently take their paw while saying “shake.” Offer a treat, hold their paw for a moment, repeat the command, and give another treat.
20. Car
Training your dog to enter a car can make travel more enjoyable for everyone. With your dog on a leash, place a treat inside the car and say “car.” Encourage them to hop in, and with repetition, they will associate the command with car rides.
21. Belly
This command encourages your dog to roll onto their side or back, facilitating belly rubs and strengthening your bond. With your dog in a “down” position, use a treat to guide them onto their side, moving the treat along their head while saying “belly.”
Beginning these commands as early as possible sets your dog up for a lifetime of positive experiences, significantly contributing to their mental health and social abilities. Responsible ownership extends to preparing for your dog’s physical health as well.
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