Dogs are a great addition to any family. They provide us with companionship, love, and security. But before you can enjoy all the benefits of owning a dog, you must train them. A trained dog is a well-behaved dog that is a joy to have around. Training can also help to prevent behaviors that may be harmful or annoying, such as biting, jumping, or barking.

This article will cover the basic commands that every dog should know, as well as some tips on how to train your dog effectively.

1)    Come

The "come" command is one of the most basic and essential commands you can teach your dog. Make sure you have your dog's attention before giving the command. You can do this by calling your dog's name or using a treat.

1. Start with your dog in a sitting position, and then give the command in a clear, calm voice.
2. Use a hand gesture to help your dog understand the command. For example, you can hold your hand with your palm facing up.
3. Once your dog comes towards you, give them praise and a treat.

2)    Sit

Sit is one of the most basic commands you can teach your dog, and it's a great starting point for training. To get your dog to sit:

1. Start by holding a treat in your hand and showing it to them.
2. Have the treat close to their nose and say the command "sit."
3. Slowly move the treat back and up over their head, and as they follow it with their nose, they should naturally start to sit down.
4. As soon as their bottom hits the ground, please give them the treat and praise them.

3)    Lie Down

This command can be helpful in various situations, from getting your dog to settle down and relax to getting them to lie still for grooming or vet examinations.

1. To teach your dog the "lie down" command, start by having them sit in front of you.
2. Then, hold a treat close to their nose and slowly move it towards the ground, letting their head follow it until they lie down.
3. As soon as they are in the down position, say, "Good dog!" and give them the treat.
4. Repeat this process several times until your dog consistently lies down when you provide the command.

4)    Stay

The "stay" command is essential, as it can help keep your dog safe in potentially dangerous situations.

1. To teach your dog to "stay," start by giving them the command to sit or lie down.
2. Then, take a step away from them, and say, "Stay."
3. If they stay in place, give them a treat. If they get up and follow you, say "no" and start over.
4. It may take a few tries for your dog to understand the "stay" command, but with patience and practice, they will teach it.

5)    Loose-leash Walking

Loose-leash walking allows you to keep your dog by your side while walking without them pulling ahead or lagging. This command is essential for keeping your dog safe while out on walks and preventing them from getting lost.

To teach your dog loose-leash walking:

1. Start by attaching a leash to their collar and letting them walk around the house or yard.
2. As they walk, keep a close eye on them and be ready to give a gentle tug on the leash if they start to pull ahead.
3. Once they reach the end of the leash, turn around and walk in the other direction.
4. Repeat this process until your dog is walking calmly by your side.

Conclusion

Your dog will learn to follow the basic obedience commands with practice and patience. The most important thing is to be consistent with the commands and to reward the dog for good behavior.

Author
Naina Anuman
In the field of histopathology, I work on processing tissue, sectioning, hematoxylin & eosin staining, and special stain. In molecular biology, I work on PCR diagnostic techniques. Immunohistochemistry, I work for swine infectious disease: PRRSV and PCV 2, Canine infectious disease: CDV, and Tumor diagnostic in canine and feline: leukemia.