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8 Things You Should Know When Learning How To Train A Dog To Sit |
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Written by Lee Dobbins
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Wednesday, 25 June 2008 |
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The first step in dog training is teaching your dog to sit. To begin this process, it is important to start when the dog is just a puppy, or as soon as it gets settled into its new home. Why do I need to train a puppy to sit? you might ask. After all, doesn't a dog already know how to sit? If you keep reading, you'll learn why this early training is important, as well as exactly how to train a dog to sit.
by LeeDobbins
The first step in dog training is teaching your dog to sit. To begin this process, it is important to start when the dog is just a puppy, or as soon as it gets settled into its new home. Why do I need to train a puppy to sit? you might ask. After all, doesn't a dog already know how to sit? If you keep reading, you'll learn why this early training is important, as well as exactly how to train a dog to sit.
1. This first step is deceptively easy. All you have to do is say the word "sit" when you see your puppy sitting down on it's own initiative. This way, the puppy understands that the word you are trying to make him learn, relate to his current actions. You can use this basic tip in all other forms of training.
2. Next you want to reward him with a treat. You should use his favorite but be sure to break it into small pieces so he can eat them quickly.
3. Being on the same level as the dog is less threatening to him, so get down on the floor with him, so that you are at his level. Make sure that you sit close to him -- that way you will be able to provide your dog with his reward more quickly.
4. Bring the treat over your puppy's head gradually. Remember that your dog has a keen sense of smell and his nose will naturally follow the path of the treat. As the treat is moving from the front of him to the back, he can do one of two things to keep following it. He will either back up while still on his feet or he'll sit down. Sitting down is easier and this is what most dogs will do.
5. As he sits, immediately say "sit" and reward him with a treat. This is key in all training. The reward has to be given at the same moment the dog responds correctly.
6. Sometimes rewards can be more than just treats so the next step is to praise him. Show joy with your voice and your body language.
7. Repeat these steps not more than 5 times in a row, but you can repeat the steps multiple times each day.
8. Now try the same thing but standing up. See if you can get the dog to sit without the aid of a treat. When he does, heap on the praise. Be sure that you never punish him if he does not sit, but wait patiently for him to sit and then praise him.
Next, you should strengthen the word so that the dog sits regardless of any distractions. This is a never ending process and you should not cease training. Every new situation should be used to train him. Use new people, new dogs, and new surroundings as training opportunities.
See how easy learning how to train a dog to sit is? When you go through these traiing steps you are doing much more than just teaching your dog how to sit. All dogs, wheter adults or Puppies love to interact with their master so training is a great bonding experience. Plus he will get used to hearing his name and being obedient to your commands. This will enforce your title of leader and make the puppy feel secure which is what he really wants in the first place.
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