How to Teach Your Dog to Sit

The first command that you teach your dog will open a whole new world up to you and your canine. Many people don't realize that once you get your pet into the routine of training with that first command, others follow quite easily!

A simple start is teaching the cue, "sit." You'll want a tasty treat on hand, something your pooch will work for. Next, you want to make sure that distractions are limited. Practice in the living room when you and Fido are the only ones home, for example. Let your dog sniff the treat (but don't let him snatch it from you) so that you have his attention. Position yourself in front of him and slowly pull the object of his desire over his nose and toward his back. You'll want to see him following it intently so that he has to back up a bit, thus putting his bottom to the floor. The moment rump meets carpet, heavily praise and treat your pup!

If this doesn't work the first time, try again but keep training sessions short and fun. Remember that if you don't have your dog's attention, you haven't picked the right treat! As much as it may seem like bribery, you are simply giving your dog a reason to work for you. Later on you can practice weaning him off the treats but for now, we just want him to understand what is being asked of him.

The most common reason that dogs do not respond to a cue (aside from being too heavily distracted) is not knowing what you mean. Keep it clear and simple. Refrain from using too much repetition of the command ("sit") during training when your dog isn't following through. This can lead to him becoming frustrated, bored, and eventually learning to tune out the word all together.

If switching to a more desirable treat doesn't regain his attention, try again at a later time. Setting your dog up for success when training a new behavior is key. Would you start a beginner level math class with calculus and expect your students to stick with it? Keep in mind that dogs do not generalize behaviors, meaning that teaching this in your living room doesn't necessarily mean it will cross over to the local park. Work your way up to training amidst distractions but increasing them gradually. For instance, start in your home, then try the back yard, then the front yard, then during walks, and so on.

If you're consistent and clear in what you want, you will be well on your way to having an obedient canine companion! "Sit" is just the beginning and you may be surprised at how far you can take any dog with the help of patience and positive reinforcement.