Teaching Dogs to Obey: 9 Commands That’ll Make Your Pup a Superstar! (2024)

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Teaching dogs to obey – sounds like a dream, right? Don’t worry, it’s totally achievable!

The key is to start small, be patient, and reward good behavior.

Begin with simple commands like ‘sit,’ ‘stay,’ and ‘come’ in a quiet environment.

Use high-value treats and praise to motivate your furry friend.

As they master each command, gradually add distractions and practice in different locations.

With positive reinforcement and consistency, you’ll be well on your way to raising a well-behaved superstar – and that’s just the beginning!

Teach Your Dog to Come When Called

Teaching your dog to come when called is one of the most important skills you’ll ever teach your furry friend. It keeps them safe in potentially dangerous situations, and it also gives them more freedom to explore and play off-leash, making walks and outdoor adventures a whole lot more fun for both of you.

Start in a Quiet Environment

Ready to turn your furry friend into a recall superstar?

Start in a quiet place at home.

It’s like giving your pup a classroom without distractions.

This calm environment helps build focus and reduces stress, setting the stage for success.

Think of it as laying the foundation for your dog’s obedience journey.

You’ll be amazed at how quickly they catch on when the world’s not competing for their attention!

Use High-Value Rewards

1. Identify your dog’s favorites (chicken, cheese, or special toys)
2. Offer rewards immediately after the desired behavior
3. Mix it up to keep things interesting

Practice With Increasing Distractions

Once your pup has the basics down, it’s time to up the ante.

Start small by practicing in your backyard with a few toys scattered around.

Gradually introduce more challenging environments like the dog park or a busy street corner.

If Fido gets distracted by a squirrel or another pooch, don’t sweat it.

Just reset and try again with a higher-value treat.

Incorporate Games and Fun

Now that you’ve built a solid foundation, it’s time to spice things up!

Turn your training sessions into a game of hide-and-seek.

Hide behind trees or furniture, then call your pup.

When they find you, throw a puppy party!

Use cue cards or verbal cues to make it more challenging.

Your furry friend will be begging for more!

Avoid Punishing for Slow Response

Don’t scold your pup for slow responses – it’s a major recall killer! Positive reinforcement is key. Reward progress, no matter how small. Instead of "come" being associated with punishment, make it a fun, treat-filled experience. Consistent training and building trust will get your pup running to you in no time. Keep it upbeat and rewarding!

Master the Sit Command

Now that your pup’s coming when called, let’s tackle the sit command. It’s a piece of cake! Teaching your dog to park their behind on command is like giving them a superpower. Here’s how to make it happen:

• Start in a quiet spot, like your living room, to avoid distractions.
• Hold a treat close to your dog’s nose, then slowly move it up and back.
• As your pup’s head tilts up, their bottom will naturally hit the floor. Bingo!

Train Your Dog to Stay in Place

Teaching your dog to stay is like giving them a superpower – it keeps them safe and shows off their stellar obedience skills. Whether you’re answering the door or enjoying a picnic in the park, a rock-solid "stay" command will make life easier for both you and your four-legged friend.

Begin With Short Durations

When teaching your pup to stay, start small to set them up for success. Think of it like building a house of cards – you wouldn’t start with a skyscraper! Begin with short, manageable durations, even just a few seconds. This approach helps build your dog

Gradually Increase Distance

Once your pup’s mastered short stays, it’s time to stretch those invisible leash limits! Start by taking baby steps backward, keeping your eyes on the prize (your obedient pooch). As you increase distance, imagine:

• Your dog, a furry statue, holding strong as you moonwalk away
• A game of canine Red Light, Green Light
• Your pup’s tail wagging with pride at each successful "stay

Add Distractions Slowly

Ready to take your pup’s "stay" to the next level?

It’s time to spice things up!

Start small by introducing mild distractions like a bouncing ball or a squeaky toy.

As your furry friend masters these, gradually amp up the challenge.

Before you know it, your pooch will be a stay-in-place superstar, even with real-world distractions!

Use a Release Word

Now that your pup’s got the hang of staying put, it’s time to teach them when it’s okay to move.

Enter the release word: your dog’s green light to freedom!

Choose a word like "okay" or "free" and use it consistently.

This little verbal cue is a game-changer, giving your furry friend clear boundaries and you the power to end the stay command on your terms.

Practice in Various Locations

Once your pup’s nailed the stay in your living room, it’s time to take the show on the road!

Practice in different spots around your home, then venture outside.

Start in calm areas and gradually work up to busier places.

This real-world training preps your furry friend for anything life throws their way.

Teach Your Dog to Lie Down

Ready to add another trick to your pup’s repertoire?

Teaching your dog to lie down is a piece of cake with the right approach.

Start by capturing the behavior when your furry friend naturally lies down – praise and treat them immediately.

For a more hands-on method, try luring your dog from a sitting position using a tasty treat.

Slowly lower the treat to the ground, and as soon as those elbows touch down, it’s celebration time!

Leash Training: Walking Without Pulling

Walking your dog should be a joy, not a tug-of-war match. With the right techniques and a bit of patience, you can transform those chaotic walks into peaceful strolls that both you and your furry friend will look forward to every day.

Choose the Right Equipment

Now that your pup’s mastered lying down, let’s tackle leash training.

First things first: gear up!

Choosing the right equipment is like picking the perfect dance partner.

Harnesses can be a game-changer for pullers, while collars work wonders for some dogs.

And don’t forget the star of the show: your leash!

Opt for a sturdy lead that feels comfortable in your hand.

Start With Short Sessions

Now that you’ve got the right gear, it’s time to hit the pavement!

But don’t bite off more than you can chew.

Start with short sessions, think of it like puppy preschool.

Your furry friend’s attention span is about as long as a squirrel’s, so keep it brief and fun.

Aim for 5-10 minute walks at first, gradually building up as your pup’s stamina grows.

Use Positive Reinforcement

Now that you’ve started with short sessions, it’s time to sprinkle in some positive vibes!

Think of yourself as your pup’s personal cheerleader.

When your furry friend walks nicely, shower them with praise and treats.

It’s like giving them a doggy high-five!

They’ll be wagging their tails in no time, excited to earn your approval and those tasty rewards.

Practice Direction Changes

Now that you’ve got the hang of positive reinforcement, let’s shake things up! Practice direction changes to keep your pup on their toes. It’s like a dance – you lead, they follow. When your dog starts pulling, simply change course. This teaches them to pay attention to you, not just the exciting smells ahead.

Gradually Increase Walk Duration

Now that you’ve mastered direction changes, it’s time to up your game! Gradually increasing walk duration is key to building your pup’s stamina and reinforcing good leash manners. Remember, Rome wasn’t built in a day, and neither is a perfect walking companion. Here’s a handy guide to help you track your progress:

Week	Walk Duration	Goals
1	10 minutes	Focus on leash manners
2	15 minutes	Add more distractions
3	20 minutes	Explore new routes

Teach Your Dog to Leave It

Teaching your dog to "leave it" is a really important skill that can keep them safe and well-behaved in various situations. Whether it’s ignoring that tempting piece of dropped food or steering clear of potential hazards, this command will give you peace of mind and help your pup become a model canine citizen.

Start With Low-Value Items

Ready to teach your pup the "leave it" command?

Start small!

Grab some low-value toys or objects your dog isn’t crazy about.

This gives you a solid starting point without overwhelming your furry friend.

As you practice, gradually increase the appeal of the items.

Use a consistent reward system to reinforce good behavior.

Before you know it, your dog will be a "leave it" pro!

Use Two-Treat Method

Ready to level up your pup’s "leave it" skills?

The two-treat method is your secret weapon!

Hold a low-value treat in one hand and a jackpot treat in the other.

When your dog ignores the first treat, praise and reward with the better one.

It’s like teaching your furry friend to choose the bigger slice of pizza!

Consistency is key, so keep those treats handy and your timing sharp.

Practice With Moving Objects

Now that your pup’s mastering the "leave it" command, it’s time to kick things up a notch!

Introduce moving objects to really test their focus.

Start with a rolling ball or sliding toy – it’s like teaching your dog to resist chasing squirrels, but way less risky!

If Fido struggles, don’t sweat it. Just dial back the difficulty and build up slowly.

You’ve got this!

Apply to Real-Life Situations

Now that your pup’s a pro at "leave it" with moving objects, it’s time to put their skills to the test in real-world scenarios.

Take your training on the road and practice in parks, on walks, or during playdates.

You’ll face plenty of temptations from dropped food to curious critters.

Train Your Dog for Proper Greeting Behavior

Teaching your dog proper greeting behavior is an essential part of their training.

With patience and practice, you can help them become a polite and well-mannered pup.

By following a few simple steps, you can help your dog learn to greet people and other animals with confidence and courtesy (Source).

Here are a few tips to get you started:

• Teaching "four on the floor." This means having your dog sit or lie down with all four paws on the ground before greeting someone.
• Practicing calm greetings. This involves teaching your dog to greet people and other animals in a calm and controlled manner, without jumping or barking.
• Using redirection techniques. If your dog starts to get excited, redirect their attention to something else, such as a toy or a treat.
• Rewarding polite behavior. When your dog greets someone politely, give them a treat or praise them verbally.

Teach Four on the Floor

Now that your pup has mastered "leave it," let’s work on "four on the floor" – a game-changer for calm greetings! This simple technique encourages your dog to keep all four paws on the ground, reducing jumping and excitement. Here are some benefits and tips to get you started:

• Reduces jumping and over-excitement
• Encourages calm behavior
• Helps with impulse control
• Strengthens your bond with your dog

Practice Calm Greetings

Now that your dog has mastered "Four on the Floor," it’s time to practice calm greetings.

Imagine arriving home to a serene pup, tail wagging, but no jumping or chaos.

To achieve this, start by having a friend visit while your dog is on a leash.

Reward calm behavior, and gradually increase the excitement level.

This will help your dog become a social superstar with great pet etiquette!

Use Redirection Techniques

As you practice calm greetings, it’s important to use redirection techniques to manage unwanted behavior. Think of it like a detour sign – you’re guiding your dog to a better route. When they jump up, calmly say "oops" and lure them into a sit or down position. Reward them with treats and praise, reinforcing positive impulse control and alternative behaviors.

Reward Polite Behavior

As you master redirection techniques, remember to reward polite behavior! When your dog calmly greets you or others, shower them with praise, treats, and affection. This positive reinforcement will help them associate good manners with good things. Be consistent and patient, and you’ll be amazed at how quickly your pup becomes a pro at polite greetings!

Teach Your Dog to Drop It

Teaching your dog to drop it can be a lifesaver, especially when they’ve got their paws on something they shouldn’t have. By following these simple steps, you can help your furry friend learn to let go of any object, from a favorite toy to a forbidden snack, and develop a more obedient and trusting relationship with you.

Start With Favorite Toys

Now that your pup’s a pro at greeting, it’s time to teach them to drop it! Start with their favorite toys – you know, the ones they just can’t get enough of. Here are some tips to get you started:

• Choose toys that are small and easy to handle.
• Pick toys with different textures and smells to keep things interesting.
• Select toys that squeak or make noise to add an extra level of engagement.
• Use a variety of toys to keep your pup guessing and motivated.

Use High-Value Treats as Exchange

Now that you’ve got your pup’s favorite toys, it’s time to up the ante with high-value treats as an exchange.

Introduce a treat-exchange system where your dog learns to drop the toy for a tasty reward.

Think of it as a doggy trade: "I’ll give you a treat, you give me the toy."

Keep those treats handy and watch your pup become a pro at dropping it!

Practice With Various Objects

Now that you’ve mastered exchanging treats for favorite toys, it’s time to practice with various objects! Introduce object-specific cues and mix in toy training, scent work, and food puzzles to keep your pup engaged. Gradually increase the difficulty level by using different textures, shapes, and sizes. This will help your dog develop object recall and become a superstar dropper!

Incorporate Into Playtime

It’s time to put those "drop it" skills to the test during playtime! Grab your pup’s favorite toys and get ready for some serious fun. Here are some playtime tricks to try:

• Tug-of-war training: Swap toys mid-game to practice dropping on command.
• Fetch variations: Hide treats or kibble inside toys for an added challenge.
• Hide-and-seek: Stash toys around the house for a sniffing adventure.
• Toy rotation: Switch up the toys every few days to keep things exciting.

Crate Training Your Dog

You’re about to become a crate-training master, and your pup will thank you for it! By crate training your dog, you’ll help with potty training and reduce separation anxiety, but you’ll also give them a cozy little den to call their own – and who doesn’t love a good den?

Choose the Right Size Crate

Choosing the right crate size for your dog is important! Puppy crates are usually smaller, while adult crates are roomier. A crate that’s too small can cause anxiety, while one that’s too big can make potty training a nightmare. Measure your dog and pick the perfect crate for a happy, stress-free pup!

Make the Crate Comfortable

Time to turn that crate into a cozy retreat!

Add some comfy crate bedding, like a plush mat or a warm blanket, to make it inviting.

Place the crate in a quiet area of your home, away from drafts and distractions.

Make sure it’s the right size for your pup to stand, turn, and lie down comfortably – no crate anxiety here!

Use Positive Associations

Now that you’ve made the crate comfortable, it’s time to associate it with good vibes. You want your pup to think, "Hey, this crate is where the magic happens!" Here are some tips to create positive associations:

• Place treats or toys inside the crate to entice your pup to enter.
• Feed meals near the crate to create a connection.
• Use a happy, upbeat tone when guiding your pup into the crate.
• Reward calm behavior with praise and affection.

Gradually Increase Crate Time

Now that your pup is comfy in their crate, it’s time to gradually increase crate time! Start with short periods, like 30 minutes, and reward calm behavior. As they adjust, you can increase the duration. Aim for an overnight crate goal, but don’t rush it. A crate training schedule will help you stay on track and avoid crate anxiety.

Never Use as Punishment

When crate training, remember: the crate is a haven, not a prison. Never use it as punishment, as this can create negative associations and lead to behavioral issues. Instead, focus on positive reinforcement and alternative methods of discipline. By doing so, you’ll help your pup view the crate as a cozy retreat, making training a whole lot easier.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)