4 Basic Behaviors Every Dog Should Know

Don't dread dog training! Read on to see just how easy it is to start training your dog today.

In order for dogs to understand their place in a pack, there has to be a leader. You! Teach your dog these four behaviors. Who knows where they may lead.

Train one command at a time. When your dog gets the basics, practice them in more distracting environments like the front yard, the park or a pet store. (On leash, of course.)

SIT
Lure your dog into the sit position a few times. Put a treat to his nose. Raise it up and over his back. As his head lifts up and back, he should sit. If he steps back, try training close to a wall. Praise and reward him as soon as he sits.

Next, add the command. Don't lure your dog yet. Just say "Sit" and wait three seconds. If he does it, give lots of praise and a treat. If he doesn't sit, begin to lure him. Praise and reward when he sits. Then try again. Your dog should be able to sit on command without a lure 9 out of 10 times.

DOWN
Ask your dog to "Sit". Now put the treat to his nose. Slowly guide your dog's nose to the ground. Now guide your dog's nose across the floor toward you. If you go very slowly, your dog will lay down. Praise and reward him when he is down.

Train the rest the same way you trained "Sit". Lure a few times. Then add the command. Give lots of praise and rewards. Practice until you dog will "Sit, Down" on command 9 out of 10 times.

STAY
Begin by asking your dog to "Sit" or "Down". Don't reward him right away. Wait a second. The next time, wait 2 seconds. When your dog will sit still for 5 seconds, add the command.

Say "Sit" or "Down". Say "Stay" and wait 2 or 3 seconds. If he stays, give lots of praise and rewards. If he pops up, try again and shorten the time.

The important thing here is to progress very slowly. Only advance in one or two second intervals. Go too fast, and you'll lose his attention.

COME WHEN CALLED
This one is fun! Leash up your dog and grab some treats. Start walking. Without warning, change direction and walk or run to the end of the leash. Stop suddenly and call your dog's name. When he gets to you ask him to "Sit". If he does it, give lots of praise and reward.