Every Dog Should Learn These Basic Training Skills

Among the most satisfying aspects of pet ownership is teaching your dog. Whether you’ve just brought home a new puppy or you’ve adopted an older dog, teaching basic training skills is essential.

Well-trained dogs are happier, safer, and more enjoyable to be around. This guide will walk you through the basic skills every dog should learn. Not only do these skills help in daily life, but they also strengthen the bond between you and your pet.

1. Sit

One of the simplest and most useful commands, “sit” should be taught early. Teaching your dog to sit can prevent them from jumping on guests, lunging, or behaving excitedly in situations where calm behavior is preferred.

How to Teach “Sit”:
– Hold a treat close to your dog’s nose.
– Move your hand up, allowing their head to follow the treat while their bottom naturally lowers.
– Once they sit, say “sit” and give them the treat along with positive reinforcement.
– Practice several times daily until your dog masters the command.

Why it’s important: “Sit” helps you control your dog in various settings, whether at home or in public. It’s a basic yet crucial skill for ensuring your dog remains calm and well-mannered.

2. Stay

Teaching your dog to stay in one place is vital for safety and control. Whether you need them to stay while opening the door or waiting for their food, this command keeps your dog in one spot until you release them.

How to Teach “Stay”:
– Ask your dog to sit.
– Say “stay,” then hold up your hand like a stop sign.
– Take a few steps back, then reward your dog if they remain in place.
– Gradually increase the distance and time your dog has to stay.

Why it’s important: The “stay” command prevents your dog from running into dangerous situations, like traffic or unfamiliar environments. It also teaches patience and self-control, which are crucial for a well-behaved dog.

3. Come

The “come” command is another lifesaver, especially if your dog is off-leash. No matter how much freedom you give your dog, they should always return to you when called. This command helps keep them safe and within your control.

How to Teach “Come”:
– Attach a long leash to your dog.
– Get down to their level and say “come” in a happy, excited tone while gently pulling on the leash.
– Give them a treat and praise when they get to you.
– Practice this in a safe, enclosed area until your dog responds reliably, even without the leash.

Why it’s important: “Come” is essential for off-leash safety and can prevent dangerous situations. Whether in the park or at home, this command ensures that your dog comes back to you promptly.

4. Leave It

Dogs are naturally curious, and sometimes their curiosity leads them to items they shouldn’t touch, like dangerous objects or food. Teaching your dog the “leave it” command can protect them from harmful situations.

How to Teach “Leave It”:
– Hold a treat in both hands. Show your dog the treat in one hand and tell it to “leave it.”
– When they back off from the treat, give them the treat from your other hand.
– Practice until they consistently leave the object alone on your command.

Why it’s important: “Leave it” helps keep your dog safe from potentially harmful objects or foods. It also teaches impulse control, making them less likely to snatch things without your permission.

5. Heel (Walking on a Leash)

Teaching your dog to walk on a leash without pulling is important for both their safety and your comfort. Walking calmly at your side, also known as “heel,” ensures that you remain in control during walks.

How to Teach “Heel”:
– Start with your dog on a leash.
– Hold treats in your hand and keep them at your side.
– Say “heel” and start walking, rewarding your dog when they stay by your side without pulling.
– Stop walking if they begin to pull and wait until they return to your side.

Why it’s important: Teaching your dog to walk without pulling makes walks enjoyable for both of you. It also ensures they don’t dart into the street or become aggressive toward other dogs or people.

6. Down

The “down” command is great for calming an overly excited dog. It’s also helpful in situations where you need your dog to lie down and relax, such as at a veterinarian’s office or in a crowded area.

How to Teach “Down”:
– Move a treat from your hand to the ground.
– As your dog follows the treat, say “down” and reward them when their belly touches the floor.
– Practice several times, gradually increasing the duration they stay in the down position.

Why it’s important: Teaching your dog to lie down on command keeps them calm in stressful or exciting situations. It also helps them relax when needed.

7. Wait

The “wait” command is slightly different from “stay” in that it is used in temporary situations. You might use it to prevent your dog from bolting through the door or to make them wait while you set down their food.

How to Teach “Wait”:
– Tell your dog to lie down or sit.
– Hold up your hand and say “wait.”
– Release them with a word like “okay” after a few seconds and reward them.
– Practice in different situations, like before feeding or while exiting a room.

Why it’s important: “Wait” teaches patience and ensures your dog doesn’t act impulsively. This command is especially helpful in managing daily routines, like waiting for meals or crossing streets.

Final Thoughts

Training your dog with these basic skills not only makes them more enjoyable to be around but also keeps them safe and well-behaved in various situations. Training takes time, patience, and consistency, but the effort is well worth it. Start with one command at a time, reward positive behavior, and keep training sessions short and enjoyable.

Dogs are eager to please and thrive on positive reinforcement, so make sure to praise them for their efforts. With regular practice, your dog will become well-versed in these essential skills, making life easier for both of you.

By mastering these basic training skills, you and your dog can enjoy a stronger bond, a happier home, and safer experiences together.