Basic Commands Questions

How do you teach a dog to sit and stay before being allowed to play?

Teaching a dog to sit and stay before being allowed to play is an excellent way to instill discipline, improve impulse control, and establish a routine that reinforces good behavior. This process requires patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement. Below is a detailed guide to help you achiev...

What is the best way to reinforce the "come" command with affection?

Reinforcing the "come" command with affection is an effective and positive way to train your dog, as it builds trust and strengthens your bond. The "come" command is one of the most important cues for a dog to learn, as it ensures their safety and allows you to maintain control in various situations...

How do you teach a dog to heel without a leash in a familiar environment?

Teaching a dog to heel without a leash in a familiar environment is a valuable skill that enhances obedience and strengthens the bond between you and your dog. Heeling means your dog walks calmly and closely by your side, matching your pace and focusing on you. Here’s a detailed guide to achieve t...

What should you do if your dog doesn’t respond to the "stay" command at home?

If your dog doesn’t respond to the "stay" command at home, it’s important to approach the situation with patience, understanding, and a structured training plan. The "stay" command is a foundational behavior that requires focus, impulse control, and trust between you and your dog. Here’s a det...

How do you teach a dog to come when called during a training class?

Teaching a dog to come when called, also known as recall training, is one of the most important skills you can teach your dog. It ensures their safety and allows you to manage them effectively in various situations. Here’s a detailed guide on how to teach this behavior during a training class or a...

What is the best way to practice "leave it" with a new puppy?

Teaching a puppy the "leave it" command is one of the most important foundational skills you can instill early on. This command helps prevent your puppy from picking up dangerous or inappropriate items, such as food scraps, toxic plants, or small objects that could be choking hazards. It also establ...

How do you teach a dog to sit and stay before being allowed to eat?

Teaching a dog to sit and stay before being allowed to eat is a foundational training exercise that promotes good manners, impulse control, and a strong bond between the dog and their owner. This behavior is rooted in basic obedience training and can be achieved through consistent, positive reinforc...

What should you do if your dog doesn’t respond to the "sit" command during training?

If your dog doesn’t respond to the "sit" command during training, it’s important to approach the situation with patience and a clear understanding of the factors that might be influencing their behavior. Training a dog requires consistency, positive reinforcement, and an awareness of the dog’s...

How do you teach a dog to heel without a leash in a controlled environment?

Teaching a dog to heel without a leash in a controlled environment is a valuable skill that requires patience, consistency, and a strong foundation in basic obedience. Heeling means the dog walks calmly and closely by your side, matching your pace and focusing on you. Here’s a detailed guide to he...

What is the best way to reinforce the "leave it" command with a release cue?

The "leave it" command is one of the most important cues you can teach your dog, as it helps prevent them from picking up or engaging with potentially dangerous or unwanted items. To reinforce this command effectively, it is essential to pair it with a clear release cue, such as "okay" or "free," to...