Do you envy how well-behaved other people’s dogs are? Why does your own dog seem like a little troublemaker? The likely reason is that you didn’t teach your dog these essential skills when they were a puppy.
-
Sit (The Most Basic but Essential Skill)
Teaching your dog to “sit” helps control its emotions and impulses: when your dog is overly excited, give the “sit” command, and it will quickly calm down, preventing unwanted behaviors like jumping on people or snatching food.
Method:① Hold a treat near the dog’s nose and move the treat upward. The dog will lift its head, and as it follows the treat, its bottom will naturally lower to the ground.② Immediately say “sit” and reward it.
-
Stay
Once your dog has learned to “sit,” you can teach it to “stay.” Teaching your dog to wait is extremely important—it boosts their self-control and helps them manage their behaviors and impulses. Dogs that love to rush tend to resist waiting, especially when crossing the street. Waiting can prevent accidents.
Method:① Have your dog sit, then raise your palm facing it and say the command “stay.”② Take a step back and observe your dog’s response. If it stays sitting, praise it with “good job” and reward it with a treat.③ If your dog gets up, repeat step ①.④ Gradually increase the time and distance. Once your dog learns to “stay,” you can play hide and seek with it!
-
Drop It (Life-Saving Skill)
Dogs are natural food lovers and will even eat dirty things off the ground when outside. Not only are these items unsanitary, but they could also be life-threatening (many dogs have been poisoned by eating outdoor debris).
Method:① While playing tug-of-war with your dog, when it bites the toy, say the “drop it” command, then show it a treat it loves.② When it drops the toy, praise it with “good job” and reward it with a treat.③ Repeat this a few times daily until the dog learns to drop things with just the command.
-
Recall (Come Back Command)
The recall command helps ensure that your dog comes back to you in case it slips off its leash or you lose track of it, reducing the risk of it getting lost.
Method:① At home, stand 1-3 meters away from your dog, clap your hands to catch its attention, and say the command “come,” optionally adding your dog’s name.② When your dog comes over, reward it. Gradually increase the distance.③ Once your dog masters the recall indoors, take it outside with a long leash and repeat step ①.
-
Potty Training (Keep Your Dog Healthy)
For working dog owners, one of the most important skills is teaching your dog to potty in a designated spot. This way, you won’t have to worry about your dog holding it in during overtime or social events.
Method:① Set up a designated potty area and let your dog get familiar with it.② After your dog eats or wakes up, take it to the potty area and say the command “potty” or “go pee.” Reward it immediately when it goes.③ If your dog doesn’t go, let it get down and repeat the process until it successfully relieves itself.
As your dog grows, it’s important to maintain its potty habits in the designated area. Otherwise, on rainy days or during overtime, things can get a bit tricky. Does your dog do this too? Feel free to leave a comment and share pictures in the comment section. Let’s exchange tips and experiences!
