Bringing a furry friend into your home is a joyous occasion but comes with responsibilities. Training your dog ensures their safety and strengthens the bond between you and your canine companion. Get Top Trends has compiled a list of 10 basic dog commands that every dog should learn.

Everyday With New Dog Command

Here are ten basic dog commands that every dog owner should consider teaching their furry friend. Explore now.

1. Sit

Teaching your dog to sit is one of the foundational commands. It helps control your dog in various situations and is essential to polite canine behavior. Start by holding a treat close to your dog’s nose and then raise your hand, moving it over your head. As their head follows the treat, their bottom should naturally lower into a sitting position. Reward them with the treat and praise when they sit.

2. Stay

The “stay” command is crucial for keeping your dog safe and under control. Begin with your dog in a sitting position, then open your hand, palm facing outward, and say “stay” while taking a step back. Gradually increase the distance and duration of the stay, rewarding your dog when they successfully remain in place.

3. Come

A reliable recall is vital for your dog’s safety. Start by crouching down and calling your dog’s name, followed by the command “come.” Use positive reinforcement with treats and praise when they respond. Gradually increase the distance and practice in various environments to reinforce a strong recall.

4. Down (Lie Down)

Teaching your dog to lie down is useful in various situations. Begin with your dog sitting, then hold a treat to their nose, moving it towards the ground. As they follow the treatment, their body should lower into a lying position. Reward them with the treat and praise.

5. Leave It

Teach your dog essential dog safety commands. The “leave it” command can prevent your dog from picking up harmful or undesirable items. Start by placing a treat in your closed hand and presenting it to your dog. Say “Leave it” and wait for them to lose interest. Once they do, reward them with a different treat and praise.

6. Drop It

Teaching your dog to drop items from their mouth is essential for their safety. Use a toy and play with your dog, then present a treat while saying, “Drop it.” When your dog releases the toy, reward them with treats and positive reinforcement.

7. Heel

Walking politely on a leash is a skill every dog should learn. Begin with your dog on your preferred side, say “heel,” and start walking. If your dog pulls, stop and wait for them to return to your side before continuing. Reward them for walking nicely beside you.

8. Wait

Like “stay,” the “wait” command is useful when you want your dog to pause briefly. Use it before crossing the road or entering a room. Start with your dog in a sitting position and say “wait” while opening your hand, palm facing forward.

9. Quiet

Excessive barking can be a common issue. Teach your dog the “quiet” command by saying the word when they are barking and rewarding them when they stop. Consistency is key to reinforcing this behavior.

10. Shake (Paw)

While not as essential as some other commands, teaching your dog to shake paws is a delightful and entertaining trick. Hold out your hand and say “shake” or “paw.” When your dog offers their paw, reward them with a treat and praise.

Conclusion

Training your dog requires patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement. These ten basic dog commands lay the foundation for a well-behaved and enjoyable relationship with your furry friend. Remember to keep dog training sessions short, positive, and fun to create a positive learning environment for your dog.