5 Essential Commands Every Dog Owner Should Teach for a Well-Behaved Pet

Training your dog is crucial to building a strong, communicative, and respectful bond with your furry companion. At Equilibrium Canine, where professionals bring years of certified experience to dog training, we emphasize starting with basic commands. These promote good behavior and safety and lay the groundwork for advanced training. Here are five basic commands for every dog owner to teach.

Sit

Why Teach This Command:

"Sit" is often the first command taught because it's a foundation for other commands and behaviors. It helps manage your dog's behavior in various settings, like calming down before mealtime or staying put when guests arrive.

Step-by-Step Teaching Guide:

• Step 1: Hold a treat close to your dog's nose to capture their attention.

• Step 2: Slowly move your hand up, allowing your head to follow the treat and causing its bottom to lower.

• Step 3: Once they're in the sitting position, say "sit," give them the treat, and offer enthusiastic praise.

This method uses positive reinforcement, supported by canine behavioral research, to encourage good behavior through rewards.

Stay

Why Teach This Command:

"Stay" is essential for controlling your dog's movements and ensuring their safety, especially in potentially dangerous situations like near busy streets.

Effective Training Steps:

• Step 1: Command your dog to "sit."

• Step 2: Open your palm towards them, say "stay," and take a few steps back.

• Step 3: Reward them with a treat and affection if they remain seated. Gradually increase the duration and distance.

Practice this command in various settings to reinforce their training across different distractions.

Come

Why This Command is Crucial:

"Come" can prevent a minor scare from becoming dangerous by ensuring your dog returns to you reliably.

Training Technique:

• Step 1: Attach a leash to your dog.

• Step 2: Squat to their level and say "come" while gently pulling on the leash.

• Step 3: When they come to you, reward them immediately with a treat and affection.

Over time, practice this command off-leash in a secure area to reinforce their response in all situations.

Down

Why Teach This Command:

"Down" reduces your dog's excitability and promotes calm behavior in various environments.

How to Teach It:

• Step 1: Hold a treat in your fist and let your dog sniff it.

• Step 2: Lower your hand to the floor, leading your head to follow, and slide your hand along the ground to encourage a lying position.

• Step 3: Once fully down, say "down," give the treat, and pet them gently.

This command is particularly effective in teaching patience and calmness.

Heel

Why This Command Matters:

"Heel" keeps your dog from pulling on the leash, making walks more enjoyable and safer for both of you.

Training Steps:

• Step 1: Keep your dog on your left side, holding a treat in your left hand near their nose.

• Step 2: Say "heel" and walk forward. When they stay beside you, reward them with a treat.

• Step 3: Repeat and gradually reduce the number of treats as they learn to stay by your side.

Conclusion: Expert Guidance for Training Success

Implementing these basic commands is your first step toward a well-behaved dog. At Equilibrium Canine, our certified trainers specialize in modern, science-based training methods to ensure you and your dog achieve the best results. For personalized training sessions and further guidance, visit us at Equilibrium Canine. Start your journey towards a fulfilling and respectful relationship with your pet today.