Training Your Dog to Sit & Stay
The “Sit” and “Stay” commands are the primary components that you will need to master in training your dog. Bring fun into the experience by introducing him into this behavior with a gentle but firm approach, and you will have paved the way for future training that will be greatly rewarding for you both.
Having a dog that is difficult to control or just wants to have too much fun indicates that you need to use the Gentle Manipulation method to train him to sit. First of all, be sure that your dog has a defined place..elevate him on a step, a table or a porch. At all times during the training, his collar must have a leash attached to give you complete control.
As soon as your dog is calm, place one hand on his chest and another on the lower part of his back near the base of his tail. As you gently rock him into the sitting position, say the word “Sit”. When this is accomplished, reward him by petting and praising him. Eventually, he will understand what you are requiring of him and he will begin to sit just before you touch him as you say the word “Sit”. The “Sit” word will become the cue and he will have mastered this new behavior.
Using treats to train your best buddy to sit is a highly recommended method for most dogs. It’s very simple. Again, elevate your dog, pass a treat 3 to 4 inches over his head, gently approaching the tail area. It’s only comfortable for him to sit in order to watch this tasty treat. When he does this, simply say “Sit”. After several repetitions, remove the treat but use the same method and say the word “Sit”. He has just accomplished learning this new command and should be appropriately rewarded.
After your dog has mastered Sitting and you have now taught him to Stay, don’t make the mistake of calling him to you and rewarding him. Reward him in the Stay position. Calling him to you and then rewarding him for Staying gives your dog no reason to stay at all. Be sure to be consistent with rewarding him at the proper time.
Two to four minutes is the appropriate length of time for each training session. Stay alert for signs of boredom or restlessnessthat’s your cue that it’s time to end the session. Be sure that your goals are clear before you begin this endeavor and most importantly, be consistent in praising and rewarding your dog for his willingness to be obedient.
