You can teach your pup all sorts of tricks and commands, depending on the breed of your beloved pup and your own strong will. Some people prefer to completely train their dog, while others are happy with just a few commands that will make life just a bit easier. If you’re the later kind but you’re not sure which ones will suffice, check out these 3 most essential commands of them all.
Sit
Just hold a treat close to your dog’s nose, and move your hand up (which allow the dog’s head to follow the treat which causes the lowering of his bottom). Once the dog is sitting, say “sit” and give your pup the treat, followed by some affection.
Repeat the training a few times every day, until your pooch has figured it out. Once the dog has mastered the command, ask him to sit before mealtime, before putting on a leash to go for a walk, etc.
Come
This command is probably the most important one, a sit can help you get your pup put of trouble or any other difficult situation that may arise. Start by putting a leash and collar on your dog, go down to his or her level and say “come,” while gently pulling the leash. When your pooch gets to you, reward him with a treat and some affection. Once he or she has mastered the command with the leash, practice more without it (in a safe, enclosed area).
Stay
Naturally, after the “come” command you must teach your dog to “stay,” but make sure that your dog has completely mastered the “sit” command. Start by asking your dog to “sit” and then open the palm of your hand in front of you and say “stay.” Take a few steps back, reward your pup with a treat and affection if he stays put. In time, increase the number of steps you take before giving your dog a treat, and always reward him or her for staying in place (even if it’s just for a few seconds).