Basic Training Tuesday: Sit

Just got a new puppy? Basic training is crucial to the well being and safety of not only your dog, but those around you as well.  Not only does it allow you to be able to control your dog better, but training actually strengthens the bond between you and your dog! Intelligent dogs often enjoy training because they get the mental stimulation they crave. One of the simplest commands to teach your dog is "Sit."

What you will need:

• Dog
• Training Treats
• *Clicker (Optional)

Preparation: Gather a few training treats.  They should, preferably, be small, bite-sized treats with minimal calories. We like to use Charlie Bears Liver Treats, but you can use whatever you'd like.  Many people also like to use tiny pieces of unseasoned chicken. If you plan to use a clicker, be sure you have that with you now.

It is best to work on training in a quiet room without too much distraction or stimulation.  Try to stay away from other animals, loud television or music, and other people. Do not scold your dog or raise your voice if he does not get the hang of the command easily.  The key is to use only positive association and to remain calm and positive.


Step One: Let your dog see that you have the treat.  You can hold it out so your dog can see and smell its presence.  Do not give your dog the treat yet.

Step Two: Move the treat closer to your dog, moving it slightly upwards as you move it forward. The treat should be high enough that your dog cannot reach it, but not so high that the dog jumps up to try.  He should lower his butt to the ground as he moves backwards, following the treat.  Click and reward as soon as your dog's butt touches the ground!

Step Three: Repeat steps one and two until your dog begins to obey consistently. Once he seems to understand the command, you can begin adding in the voice command. State the command as your dog performs the desired command. Be consistent.  If you say "sit" the first time, you must say "sit" every time after that. Try not to say variations of the command (ie: "sit down," "get down," etc.) or else you might confuse your dog.

Try to avoid repeating yourself too much when stating a command. "Sit." is much different than "sitsitsitsitsit." Give your dog a bit of time to recognize what you want before repeating yourself.

Follow these simple steps, and your dog should follow the sit command with ease in no time! To be sure they stay in practice, the Monsters always sit for treats, breakfast, and dinner.


Special thanks to Suzy for being our demonstrator for today!