Buying a new dog is exciting and fun for everyone in the family. Once your new canine buddy goes through the transition time of settling into your home, you will start thinking about training. Teaching your dog basic manners is important for bonding, communicating and enjoying life with your fur buddy. Most dog training techniques can involve the entire family so that everyone knows how to command the dog and they don’t get confused. Here is a list of simple commands to start training your dog.
8 Commands of Dog Training
1. Your Dog’s Name
Starting a lifelong bond with your dog begins with naming your dog. After choosing a name, one of the first commands your dog should learn is their name. Teaching your dog their name is critical to all other commands, as you typically use it when giving further instructions.
Personalize the relationship with your dog right away by choosing a name that connects your dog with the family. Even if your dog came with a name, you might want to change it. Changing the name immediately and teaching the new name is essential for your dog to know you are calling them and they will respond.
2. No
Dogs are notorious for being man’s best friend and getting into trouble. Just like a young child, your dog will need boundaries. Teach your dog that the word “no” means they are not doing the right thing. You will probably use an influx in your voice when saying “no,” which will pique your dog's ears more quickly to correct the behavior. You don't have to give your dog a look or yell when saying “no.” Your voice's influx change while saying the word will be enough to show your dissatisfaction with their action and encourage your dog to act appropriately.
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3. Sit
Treats are a significant part of training. Most of the time when you provide your dog with a treat, it comes with a command. “Sit” is an excellent command to start using treats. Model sitting for your dog and give them a treat so that they begin understanding what the word “sit” means and are rewarded during daily routines.
4. Stay
Along with sitting, you will want to teach your dog to “stay.” Dogs don’t always sit for the entire duration of being told to stay, but they should not move from their location when told to stay in a certain place. Teaching the command “stay” is important when you have people at the door and don’t want the dog bombarding them or when you leave for work and want the dog in their designated location when you exit the house.
5. Come
Once your dog recognizes their name, it is time to teach them how to come when called. Telling your dog to “come” is a command you use often. The command will help communicate with your dog when you need them by your side, to go outside or for a walk.
6. Leave It
Along with the command of “no,” it is good to teach your dog the instruction “leave it.” This command encompasses anything your dog may want to pick up with their teeth. It can also get their attention if they are chasing a squirrel and barking up a tree. The term “leave it” will indicate what your dog needs to leave behind and return to you. Your dog's desire to chew up a child's toy or pull up outside flowers will stop when they recognize the command to leave it. Your dog will immediately redirect their attention to obeying your instruction and leave behind their mistaken treasure.
7. Drop It
The command “drop it” is similar to “leave it” but shows the dog that what they have in their mouth should not be there, like grapes that fell from the table and could harm your dog if ingested. Training your dog to return a ball for playtime is another great way to use the instruction to drop it. You don't want to get bitten by your dog by forcing your hands into their mouth to release the object they are holding. Teaching the command “drop it” will provide a safe way to remove the item.
8. Settle or Calm Down
When you enter a room or have guests over, dogs get excited and show it by jumping up and down, twirling in circles and barking to give you the biggest welcome you've ever received. Although this reaction is quite endearing, it can also be overwhelming as you walk through the door with arms full of grocery bags. Teaching your dog to “settle” or “calm down” can help reduce the excitement you receive right away and reserve that excitement for another time in a safer manner.
This command is also helpful when teaching your dog not to bark at the doorbell or thunderstorms. You can designate a settle-down area in the house for your dog by showing them where to go when calm down time is needed, like their bed or crate.
Training Options for Your Dog
There are several ways that you can train your dog. You can read books and look online for various dog training methods. You will eventually come to the desired results, but it may take a great deal of time and training trials to see what works with your dog.
Another option is hiring a professional trainer to work with your dog individually or in a group. The trainer provides you with verified techniques and proven results.
Board and training programs, classes and in-home dog training are all avenues that you can take to train your dog. As your new pup adjusts to home, you will notice which training will be best for you and your dog.
Start Training Today
Remember that any dog, regardless of breed, age or behavior, can learn basic commands. Have many treats ready to reward your dog for following instructions, like sit, stay, come, drop it and settle. Start training your dog today for a fun life together.
