Training your puppy is crucial for their development and your peace of mind. Teaching essential commands helps ensure your dog is well-behaved and safe in various situations. Here are some key commands every dog should know:
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Sit: This is one of the most basic and essential commands. It helps keep your dog calm and under control.
- How to Teach: Hold a treat close to your dog’s nose, then move your hand up, allowing their head to follow the treat and their bottom to lower. Once they’re in a sitting position, say “sit,” give them the treat, and show affection.
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Stay: This command is vital for keeping your dog out of trouble and can prevent dangerous situations.
- How to Teach: First, make sure your dog knows the “sit” command. Then, open your palm in front of you and say “stay.” Take a few steps back. If they stay, reward them with a treat and affection. Gradually increase the distance.
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Come: This command is essential for your dog’s safety, especially in off-leash situations.
- How to Teach: Put a leash on your dog and get down to their level. Say “come” while gently pulling on the leash. When they come to you, reward them with a treat and praise.
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Down: This command helps control your dog in various situations and is more challenging than “sit.”
- How to Teach: Hold a treat close to your dog’s nose and move it to the floor. Once their body is down, say “down,” give them the treat, and praise them.
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Leave It: This command can prevent your dog from picking up dangerous or unwanted items.
- How to Teach: Show your dog a treat in your hand and say “leave it.” Close your hand and wait until they lose interest. Once they do, give them a different treat with your other hand.
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Heel: This command ensures your dog walks beside you rather than pulling ahead.
- How to Teach: Hold a treat close to your dog’s nose, then take a few steps with them at your side. Use a clicker or say “heel” when they are walking beside you, and reward them with a treat.
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Off: This command helps keep your dog from jumping on people or furniture.
- How to Teach: If your dog jumps on you, turn away and ignore them. Once they settle down, reward them with a treat and praise.
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Wait: Similar to “stay,” this command is useful for when you need your dog to be patient.
- How to Teach: Use a leash and say “wait” while holding it steady. Reward them for waiting before proceeding.
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Drop It: This command is crucial for getting your dog to release something from their mouth.
- How to Teach: Trade the item in their mouth for a treat, saying “drop it.” Reward them once they release the item.
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No: This command is essential for correcting unwanted behavior.
- How to Teach: Use a firm but calm voice to say “no” when your dog is doing something undesirable. Redirect their attention to a positive activity and reward them.
Consistent training and positive reinforcement are key to teaching these commands effectively. By investing time in training your puppy, you can enjoy a well-behaved and happy companion.