Training your dog in basic obedience is essential for a happy and harmonious relationship between you and your furry friend. Proper training not only ensures good behaviour but also strengthens your bond and provides your dog with the mental stimulation they need. Whether you’re training a new puppy or an older dog, these obedience tips will set you up for success.

Why Basic Obedience Training Matters

Obedience training is more than just teaching your dog commands. It helps to:

• Strengthen communication between you and your dog.
• Prevent behavioural issues such as jumping, barking, and aggression.
• Keep your dog safe in various environments.
• Encourage positive social interactions with people and other animals.

Essential Obedience Commands Every Dog Should Know

1. Sit

The “sit” command is one of the first and most important commands to teach your dog. It helps in calming your dog and setting a foundation for other commands.

How to Teach:

• Hold a treat close to your dog’s nose.
• Slowly move the treat upward, causing their head to tilt back and their bottom to lower.
• As soon as they sit, say “sit” and reward them with the treat.
• Repeat several times a day until they sit on command.

2. Stay

Teaching your dog to stay helps prevent them from running into dangerous situations.

How to Teach:

• Ask your dog to “sit.”
• Open your palm toward them and say “stay.”
• Take a step back. If they remain still, reward them with a treat.
• Gradually increase the distance and duration of the “stay.”
• Always praise your dog for staying in place.

3. Come

The “come” command is crucial for safety and ensures your dog returns to you when called.

How to Teach:

• Put a leash on your dog and squat down to their level.
• Say “come” while gently pulling on the leash.
• When they reach you, reward them with a treat and praise.
• Practice in a safe, enclosed area without the leash as they improve.

4. Leave It

This command prevents your dog from picking up harmful or unwanted objects.

How to Teach:

• Hold a treat in both hands.
• Show one treat to your dog and say “leave it.”
• When they stop trying to take it, give them the other treat from your other hand.
• Repeat until they understand to ignore the first treat.

5. Heel

Teaching your dog to walk nicely on a leash without pulling makes walks more enjoyable.

How to Teach:

• Hold treats in your left hand and keep your dog on your left side.
• Start walking and say “heel.”
• Reward your dog when they walk beside you without pulling.
• If they pull, stop walking and wait for them to return to your side before continuing.

Tips for Successful Obedience Training

Be Consistent

• Use the same commands and hand signals each time.
• Train in different environments to reinforce learning.

Use Positive Reinforcement

• Reward good behaviour with treats, praise, and affection.
• Avoid harsh corrections, as they can cause fear and confusion.

Keep Training Sessions Short and Fun

• Dogs learn best in 5-10 minute sessions.
• End on a positive note to keep them eager for the next session.

Start Early but Remember It’s Never Too Late

• Puppies can start training as early as 8 weeks old.
• Older dogs can still learn new tricks with patience and consistency.

 

 

Common Obedience Training Mistakes to Avoid

1. Inconsistent Commands

If one family member says “down” and another says “lie down,” it confuses the dog. Stick to the same words and signals.

2. Expecting Immediate Results

Training takes time. Be patient and celebrate small victories.

3. Not Practicing Enough

Repetition is key to reinforcement. Practice commands daily, even after your dog has learned them.

4. Using Punishment Instead of Encouragement

Negative reinforcement can create fear-based responses. Always use positive reinforcement to encourage learning.

When to Seek Professional Training

While many owners successfully train their dogs at home, professional training can provide additional benefits:

• Socialisation opportunities with other dogs.
• Expert guidance on handling behavioural issues.
• Structured lessons to reinforce obedience skills.

Book a Puppy Training Class Today!

Give your puppy the best start in life with professional training. Call us on 02 9416 1300 or visit Puppy Training Services to learn more and book a class!