Teach your Dog the Sit Command

It is common knowledge that 'sit" is the most command and helpful command that exists between a dog and its owner. This command is not difficult to use, and you can use it to stay in control with your dog for the whole of the day. This command can be used to keep you dog away from trouble, if you want to take care of your dog or just want the dog to calm down when visitors arrive.

If you train your dog with treats from an early age on, it might become a problem later on as they will struggle trying to learn new commands without getting treats. You should stop giving them treats immediately if this is the case. Also do not let that look in their eyes make you feel guilty - rather learn to praise him when he does something wrong.

Giving treats can however by good in training by being a first step for dogs that are shy or full of fear. But as soon as they are making progress, you should stop giving them treats. For a start you can give them a treat every few times they get something right, and then phase it out completely. Then make sure you keep on praising your dog in an excited manner. Regardless from whether your dog is being learned the "sit" command for the first time; it should be done without having to use force.

Getting your dog in the correct position is done by slowly applying pressure while at the same time pushing the hind of your dog in a downward position. Applying force will make resistance. If you are finding it hard to get your dog into the "sit" position, he will also find it difficult to remain standing. In the end you want to show your dog what you want him to do, and eventually he will comply with that.

It is best if you try to teach this command to your dog while they are on their leash. Make sure that the lead is tight, and that it is not loose. At the same time of giving the "sit" command, you should also give the signal with your left hand. This sign should be started with your palm forward while your left arm hangs at your side. After this, you should bend your elbow and bring your hand back up - all in one even movement. Dogs tend to more easily learn hand signals then voice commands as the movement will attract their attention.

If your dog does not take note the first time round, you should not be too worried. He will eventually see it as you progress with the training process. If you get this right, your dog will also achieve success eventually. After giving the spoken and hand signal at the same time bring your hand to your hip. At this stage the leash should be over your body, and loose. When you see that your dog is having difficulty breathing or that his head is moved up you should give some slack.

While the lead is over your hip, you will have to reach downward and place your forefinger and thumb in front of the hipbones with your left hand. This will mean you forming a "U" shape by using your fingers. After the "U" has been formed, you should press your fingers to the inside as you move your dog down, and then to the back. After performing the movement your dog should move over in the "sit" position. By pushing your dog too hard he will probably resist what you are trying to do. Try giving the same sort of pressure that you would like on you, and this will probably be successful.

After your dog took in the "sit" position, you can stop applying pressure on him. Now you can convey praise to him by speaking in a warm voice, and maybe even stroking his chest. If the dog stands up immediately, you should not be worried as he does not know the "stay" command yet. If he jumps up immediately, you can just place him in the right position again - and then give him the necessary praise. It is important that you don't reprimand him now as it takes time to learn a new command.

Enthusiasm is very important when you want to teach your dog something new that you are enthusiastic about it. Dogs want you to guide them when they should learn something new. If you show more enthusiasm toward something, they will probably be more happy and excited. Your dog will think what you are trying to teach him is fun if you look excited. Of you come across as bored, you won't be able to keep the attention of your dog. Make sure that you set a positive environment for your dog to learn.