5 Top Tricks to Teach Your Dog: Advice from a Dog Behaviorist for Puppy Obedience Training

Tricks to teach your dog

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Dogs are intelligent, loyal, and eager to please their humans. As a dog owner, it's essential to provide them with proper guidance and training to ensure they're well-behaved and happy. In this article, we'll explore five top tricks to teach your dog, gain insight from a dog behaviorist, and cover the fundamentals of puppy obedience training. Let's embark on this journey together to train our furry friends like pros!

1. Sit Command

Teaching your dog to sit is one of the most fundamental and essential commands. Not only does it help establish your authority as the pack leader, but it also helps your dog focus and remain calm in various situations.

Training Steps:

1. Hold a treat close to your dog's nose.
2. Move your hand up, allowing their head to follow the treat and causing their bottom to lower.
3. Once they're in the sitting position, say "sit," give them the treat, and share affection.

Repeat this sequence multiple times a day until your dog masters the command.

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2. Stay Command

The stay command is crucial for your dog's safety and helps them learn self-control.

Training Steps:

1. Ask your dog to sit.
2. Open the palm of your hand in front of you, and say "stay."
3. Take a few steps back. If your dog stays, reward them with a treat and affection.
4. Gradually increase the distance and duration of the stay command.

3. Come Command

The come command ensures your dog returns to you when called, preventing them from getting lost or injured.

Training Steps:

1. Put a leash and collar on your dog.
2. Go down to their level and say "come" while gently pulling on the leash.
3. When they come to you, reward them with a treat and affection.
4. Practice this command off-leash in a safe, enclosed area.

4. Lie Down Command

The lie down command can help calm an excited or anxious dog and is also useful when you need them to settle in a specific spot.

Training Steps:

1. Hold a treat close to your dog's nose and let them sniff it.
2. Move your hand down to the ground, leading them to lie down.
3. Once they're down, say "lie down," reward with the treat, and give affection.

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5. Leave It Command

The leave it command teaches your dog to ignore distractions, which can be valuable for their safety and well-being.

Training Steps:

1. Place a treat in both hands.
2. Show your dog one closed fist with the treat inside and say "leave it."
3. Wait until they stop sniffing, licking, or pawing at your fist.
4. Reward them with the treat from the other hand and praise them.

Remember to be patient and consistent with your training. Each dog learns at a different pace, and it's important to use positive reinforcement to foster a strong bond with your furry friend.

By following these expert dog behaviorist tips and focusing on puppy obedience training, you'll set your dog up for success and create a harmonious, loving relationship. Happy training!