How do I teach my dog to sit on command?

There are several methods for teaching a dog to sit on command. One of the easiest ways is to first lure your dog into the sit position by putting a smelly treat in front of his nose and then slowly raise the treat it over his head/nose luring his head up and back. This causes your dog to look up at the treat and then put their bottom on the floor ("sit"). As soon as your dog's bottom hit's the floor say a marker word "yes" (or use a clicker) and then give your dog the treat. Repeat this 2 or 3 times. When you think your dog is starting to catch on, then say "sit" before you lure your dog, and then say "yes" when his bottom touches the floor and then give him a treat.

You should not use any type of physical manipulation, such as pushing and moving the dog, as it's not necessary using this approach. Dog's learn best if they voluntarily participate in the exercise. If your dog doesn't lure into the "sit" right away, remain patient, there is no need to touch your dog. If your dog is ignoring the treat, try using a treat with a stronger smell or put several treats in your hand and lure again. If your dog is backing away from you instead of sitting, you can practice luring your dog up against a wall so he doesn't back away from you or the treat. If your dog is mouthy, keep the treat in your fist so he can't get it out of your hand.

Practice this a few times a day and your dog will be sitting on command in no time. | 03.14.16 @ 17:41