Simple Dog Training Command - SIT

Training your dog to ‘sit’ has many benefits, including asserting yourself as the alpha (leader) of the relationship and also providing a solid base to work off when teaching other commands.

When a dog has been trained to sit, he's more attentive, making it easier to teach further commands and desired behavior. He sees you as alpha and is willing to follow your commands.

The behavior of ‘sitting’ also helps to control undesired behavior. A dog in the sit position is not running around unchecked, knocking objects or people over, or chasing other animals or cars.

The length of time required to train ‘sit’ depends on the breed, individual character and regularity of training, but nearly every dog is able to learn this basic command in a short time frame.

Use the dog’s natural behavior to your advantage. Watch him and issue the voice and hand command when he naturally begins to sit so that the dog is able to connect the behavior with the command. Every behavior should have unique hand signal and command. When correct behavior is carried out, praise extensively using tone and pats, but not food treats. Save treats for more difficult commands.

In the beginning the dog will not realize why you are happy, but with consistency and repetition, the dog will come to understand. A dog tends to be happy when the alpha is happy, so he will endeavor to please you.

To initiate a sit, stand and face the dog, give the command and wait for correct behavior to be modeled. Some dogs will understand after a couple of tries while some will take many more. Some will require further encouragement to act as desired. In those instances use other techniques.

Holding a treat or toy, face the dog and place it above and slightly behind his head, but where still visible. The dog will usually look up and stretch its chin slightly backward. Once you have gained his attention move back towards the tail slowly.

If the dog responds by backing up try this method near a couch or fence so that movement is restricted. When the dog begins to sit, issue the command and hand signal. When ‘sit’ is completed correctly, praise extensively and give the reward.

Voice commands are not the only sound you can utilize. Many trainers use a 'clicker' - a small plastic and metal device that makes a 'click-clack' noise when pressed and released. Dogs are able to hear the sound over long distances and recognize it amongst moderate background noise.

Used as a last resort for the stubborn or a slow learner, issue the command while pushing gently on the back near the tail as you lift his chin. Praise and reward if the behavior is carried out even though it wasn’t done voluntarily. Special care needs to be taken with young hips – never force a completely uncooperative dog this way.

As with all training, patience repetition and consistency will lead to the desired behavior. Never become harsh or frustrated, but ensure that the dog is only rewarded for correct behavior.

         

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