5 Essential Commands Every Dog Should Know

Training your pup is a highly rewarding experience that not only strengthens your bond but also ensures their well-being in various situations. As a pet boarding service, Barnstone Kennels & Cattery understands the importance of well-mannered dogs, which is why we’re sharing our top tips for teaching the five essential commands all dogs should have down pat. 

1. Sit

Why It’s Important: Teaching your dog to “Sit” lays the foundation for managing their behaviour. Whether it’s stopping them from jumping on guests or keeping them calm when distracted, this command is fundamental. Moreover, it’s often the first step towards more advanced training.

How to Teach It:

• Hold a treat near your dog’s nose to capture their attention.
• Slowly move your hand upwards, prompting your dog to follow the movement with their eyes while naturally lowering their back into a sitting position.
• As soon as they sit, say “Sit” and reward them with both the treat and verbal praise.
• Practise this command in various settings to ensure consistency.

2. Stay

Why It’s Important: “Stay” is essential for ensuring control over your dog’s movements, particularly in dangerous situations. It instructs your dog to remain still until you give them the signal to move, which is invaluable during walks or when people visit your home.

How to Teach It:

• Begin by asking your dog to sit.
• With your palm facing them, say “Stay” while holding your hand out in front.
• Take a few steps back while maintaining eye contact.
• If your dog remains in place, reward them with a treat and praise. If they move, calmly guide them back and repeat the process.
• Gradually increase the distance and duration to improve reliability.

3. Come

Why It’s Important: The “Come” command is crucial for your dog’s safety, allowing you to call them back to you in potentially risky situations.

How to Teach It:

• Start in a quiet environment with minimal distractions, using a lead for control.
• Crouch to your dog’s level and enthusiastically say “Come” while gently pulling the lead.
• Once they begin moving towards you, reward them with a treat and praise.
• Continue practising in different settings, slowly introducing distractions and increasing the distance.

4. Down

Why It’s Important: The “Down” command helps to calm your dog by placing them in a submissive, relaxed posture. This is particularly useful for managing hyperactivity or anxiety, providing them with a sense of comfort in stressful situations.

How to Teach It:

• Hold a treat near your dog’s nose to grab their attention.
• Slowly lower the treat towards the ground, encouraging them to follow it and lie down.
• When they lie down, say “Down” and reward them with the treat and praise.
• Patience is key as some dogs may take longer to feel comfortable with this position.

5. Leave It

Why It’s Important: “Leave It” is crucial for stopping your dog from grabbing or consuming harmful objects. This command is particularly helpful on walks and discourages undesirable behaviours like scavenging.

How to Teach It:

• Hold a treat in each hand. Present one closed hand with a treat and say, “Leave It.”
• Let your dog sniff and investigate, but don’t give them the treat.
• When they stop showing interest and look away, reward them with the treat from your other hand.
• Practise this consistently until they respond quickly, even with more tempting objects, always rewarding them for complying.

The Broader Benefits of Command Training

Training your dog in these commands offers many benefits beyond just good behaviour:

1. Improved Safety: A well-trained dog responds to commands, reducing the risk of accidents or harm. Commands like “come” and “stay” are critical in preventing your dog from running into dangerous situations.
2. Mental Stimulation: Training exercises your dog’s brain, offering mental stimulation that prevents boredom and undesirable behaviour. Commands challenge your dog to think and solve problems, which can also prevent destructive habits.
3. Strengthened Bond: Training sessions offer quality bonding time. The trust and understanding built through these activities enhance your relationship, resulting in a dog that looks to you for guidance. 
4. Socialisation and Behaviour Control: Dogs that know how to follow commands like “sit” and “stay” are easier to manage in social situations. This makes outings, interactions with other pets, and even vet visits much less stressful.
5. Better Quality of Life: A trained dog is not only easier to manage but also enjoys a better life. They experience less frustration and anxiety when they know what is expected of them, making for a happier and healthier companion.

By investing time and consistency in your dog’s training, you provide them with the tools they need to thrive in any environment. These basic commands aren’t just about obedience; they are key to ensuring a safe, stimulating, and fulfilling life for your dog.