Having a trained and obedient dog can be extremely helpful in both of your day-to-day lives. When your dog knows basic commands – it can nip problems in the bud and also prevent other problem behaviors from developing in the future.

You might be thinking – “it takes a lot of time and money to put my dog through obedience school.” This is true – however, 3 of the most basic and essential commands can be taught right at home with just a few simple steps and some dedication.

Let’s start!

“Sit”

This one simple command is possibly one of the best commands for your dog to learn – but also one of the easiest to teach. In just 3 steps – repeatedly throughout the day – you’ll dog will be a pro at obeying this essential command.

1. Have a treat in your hand and let your dog sniff it.
2. Move the treat away from your dog’s nose – letting his head follow upwards and his bottom to head towards the ground.
3. As soon as your dog is sitting properly – say the word “Sit” sternly but positively, reward them with the treat and show them some love.

Repeating this super simple sequence throughout the day will have your dog obeying your sit commands in no time.

“Stay”

After mastering the “Sit” command – the “Stay” command should be the next to teach. This command is particularly important when it comes to teaching your dog self-control; preventing them from running after things they shouldn’t or trying to race out an open door.

1. Tell your dog to “Sit”
2. Put your hand out with the palm of your hand facing them in a “stop” fashion. Say the word “Stay” and slowly back away.
3. If your dog stays – make sure to reward their behavior. Treats always help in the beginning – and make sure to always show affection.
4. Over time – increase the steps back that you take while your dog “Sits” and “Stays.”

Dogs are curious and high-energy creatures so this one might take a little more patience to master; with practice and dedication – they’ll be pros at this command too.

“Come”

Nothing is more frustrating than having your dog not come when ordered. It can be dangerous too. Again – with a few simple steps and repetition, your dog will learn to come when called.

1. Have your dog collared and leashed.
2. Get your body down to their eye-level and sternly but positively say “Come” while slightly tugging on the leash.
3. Once they’ve come to you? Of course, reward them!

Having your dog leashed versus off-leash can be an entirely different story. Once they’ve gotten the leashed command down pat – start to try this same technique off leash but in an enclosed area using the previously learned “Sit” and “Stay” commands.

A Little Help from Technology

Of course all training takes time and the process will take repetition. Your dog might slip up a few times during the learning stages – that’s okay. Keep going.

There are also products out there to help us when our dogs disobey our commands and run out the front door or don’t return when called.