How to Teach Your Bird the Step-Down Command

The "Step-Down" command is the command you should teach to your new bird after you've taught him or her "Step-Up". "Step-Down" is used to get your bird to step down off of your finger onto a perch or other item/place you want him to step down to.

1) Find a small closed room where the training should take place.

2) Talk to your bird. Birds seem to find that their owners voice is soothing and it will calm them down making them feel safer. You can also give your bird a small pre-training treat which will also get your bird in the calm, playful mood. Remember: training is suppose to be fun, not boring for the bird!

3) Position your finger with your bird on it next to the perch you want him to step down on.

4) Lightly press your bird's feet to the perch.

5) Using a nice, soft voice say, "Step-Down".

6) When your bird completes the task, reward him with a treat and praise or even a special toy.

Practice this command everyday and your bird will get the hang of it!