Basic Commands Questions
What should you do if your dog doesn’t respond to the "sit" command outdoors?
If your dog doesn’t respond to the "sit" command outdoors, it’s important to understand that this is a common challenge for many dog owners. Dogs often struggle with obedience commands in outdoor environments because they are more distracted by sights, sounds, and smells compared to indoor setti...
How do you teach a dog to heel without a leash in a park?
Teaching a dog to heel without a leash in a park is a challenging but rewarding skill that requires patience, consistency, and a strong foundation in basic obedience. Heeling off-leash means your dog walks calmly and closely by your side, maintaining focus on you even in distracting environments lik...
What is the best way to practice "leave it" with a favorite toy?
Teaching a dog the "leave it" command with a favorite toy is an essential skill that promotes impulse control and strengthens your bond with your dog. This command is particularly useful in situations where your dog might pick up something dangerous or inappropriate. Below is a detailed guide on how...
How do you teach a dog to sit and stay before being petted?
Teaching a dog to sit and stay before being petted is an essential skill that promotes good manners, safety, and a positive relationship between the dog and humans. This behavior helps prevent jumping, overexcitement, or accidental injuries, especially with larger dogs. Below is a detailed guide on ...
What should you do if your dog ignores the "stay" command when excited?
If your dog ignores the "stay" command when excited, it is a common issue that many dog owners face. This behavior often occurs because dogs, especially those with high energy or strong emotional responses, struggle to maintain focus and self-control in stimulating situations. Addressing this requir...
How do you teach a dog to come when called during a game of fetch?
Teaching a dog to come when called during a game of fetch is an essential skill that combines obedience training with play. This behavior not only ensures your dog's safety but also strengthens your bond and improves their responsiveness in various situations. Below is a detailed guide on how to ach...
What is the best way to practice "heel" with a distracted dog?
Teaching a distracted dog to heel can be challenging but is entirely achievable with patience, consistency, and the right techniques. Heeling is a foundational obedience skill where the dog walks calmly and closely beside you, typically on your left side, without pulling or straying. Here’s a deta...
How do you teach a dog to leave a dropped item alone?
Teaching a dog to leave a dropped item alone is an essential skill for their safety and your peace of mind. This behavior, often referred to as "leave it," helps prevent dogs from picking up dangerous objects, eating harmful foods, or engaging in unwanted behaviors like stealing items. Below is a co...
What should you do if your dog doesn’t respond to the "come" command at the park?
If your dog doesn’t respond to the "come" command at the park, it can be frustrating and potentially dangerous, especially if the dog is off-leash or in an unfenced area. Here’s a detailed guide on how to address this issue, including why it happens, how to improve recall, and what to do in the ...
How do you teach a dog to sit and stay before going through a doorway?
Teaching a dog to sit and stay before going through a doorway is an essential skill that promotes safety, discipline, and good manners. This behavior helps prevent door-dashing, which can be dangerous, especially in high-traffic areas or near busy streets. Below is a detailed guide on how to train y...