Does Your Dog Make the Grade? – Six Basic Dog Obedience Commands You Should Know?

As your kids load up their back-packs and head off to school, you might take a minute to see if your dog makes the grade when it comes to these basic obedience commands.

As an avid 4-H member in my youth, I was active in dog obedience training for my dogs (a 55 lb mutt and Cocker Spaniel). I had great fun spending time with my dogs and after the training, they were even more delightful to be around.

Personally I highly recommend obedience training, especially for large dogs.

Here are some of the basic commands:

SIT - The sit command is one of the easiest to master. Anytime you see him in the act of sitting, say, “SIT,” and reward him with a treat when his bottom hits the ground. You can also gently push down on his bottom as you say the command “SIT.”

STAY - How long can your dog sit or lie in a stay? I remember the days of walking around the neighborhood and practicing this command. Your dog should be able to maintain the position until you release him with another command such as free dog. When your dog is tired, have him in a sit or down position and command, “stay.” If he maintains it for one to two seconds, reward him. Gradually increase the time, add distance and distractions to the equation as you continue your training.

COME - Your dog should come when you call his name and command, “come,” despite distractions. Incorporate this command daily, and never punish your dog when he comes to you.

DOWN - The down position is lying down, belly to the ground and front legs extended. To train this position, put a treat right in front of your dog’s nose and lower it straight down to the ground. Praise the behavior by offering a treat.

LEAVE IT - A leave it command will keep your dog from eating unwanted food or taking others’ today. Practice by holding a treat in your extended hand. As your dog reaches for it, say, “leave it,” and reward with praise when he draws back from or inattention to the treat.

GO TO YOUR SPOT – Your dog should be able to go to a designated spot on command. Point to the spot and give a verbal command. Leave treats on the designated spot as reinforcement.

How does your dog do with these commands? I’ve found some great dog obedience training guides that will help you train your dog to be the best behaving dog on the block.