Simple Dog Training Command – DOWN

To train your dog effectively, you need to be seen as the alpha (leader). As dogs are pack animals, they will naturally respond to the more dominant of the group. A good method to assert yourself as alpha is teaching them the ‘down’ command.

As well as enforcing your status, there are also other benefits to this technique. A dog in the ‘down’ position isn’t running around unrestrained knocking over objects or people. This position also leads into other training commands like ‘rollover’ and ‘crawl’.

Usually the ‘down’ command is easily mastered by the dog. Use the dog’s natural behavior to train when possible, taking note of when the dog moves from a sitting or standing position to a prone position.

When this behavior naturally occurs, issue a unique voice and hand command that you want associated with ‘down’ training. Every training command should have a unique voice and hand command, issued with authority.

If correct behavior is preformed after the command, praise extensively. In the beginning the dog will not realise why it is being praised, but with practice and repetition, consistent behavior will be given after the command.

Consistent desired behavior probably won’t be performed on command the first few times, but with patience and consistency the dog will learn the desired behavior. When training, distractions should be minimised. Train in an area that is as isolated as possible so that the dog can focus solely on you.

Use a treat or toy to encourage correct behavior. Place the dog in the ‘sit’ position, then place the toy or treat on the ground, just in front of the dog’s nose.

Repeat this technique several times, then try moving to a ‘waving down’ hand command with your palm towards the floor. Only reward the dog when the behavior is correct, but don’t become frustrated if the dog fails to obey the command. Patience is important.

Leash training may be required for the slow learner or assertive dog. Use a two to four foot nylon or leather leash and place the dog in ‘sit’ before kneeling in front of the dog.

Issue the voice and hand command, move the toy or treat to the ground and tug gently on the leash. The aim is to encourage the correct behavior, and not punish.

In difficult cases, kneel down with the leash loop under one foot and slide it under the knee of the opposite leg, then face the dog on a slight angle. Use your foot to pull the leash, sliding it over your leg. At the same time, gently pull the dog's forelegs towards you while issuing the voice command.

Once the dog is in the correct position, praise extensively even though the dog didn’t execute the move voluntarily. In order to encourage desired behavior, you want the dog to connect the position with good feelings.

As with all training, patience, consistency and commitment are required to instill the desired behavior in the dog.

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