How To Train Your Dog To Sit
Sit is often the first command people teach their dogs, and it’s also one of the easiest. It’s the ideal “first command” to teach, because from the sit command you can also teach your dog an array of other commands- and many commands require ‘sit’ in order to be taught. You can begin teaching your puppy to sit at a young age and most dogs will easily learn this command with in 1 to 3 days of training. So how do you get started?
Hold treat directly in front of dog’s nose
Begin by holding a treat directly in front of your dog’s nose. This shows them that you have a reward for their behavior. Do not let them have the treat, but allow them to sniff it. If they attempt to bite it or take the treat, remove your hand from their reach. Bring the treat back to them once they quit trying to take it.
Say “Sit” and lightly press down on their back end
Be very clear and stern with your voice and say “Sit” somewhat loudly (do not shout- just annunciate clearly). As you say “sit” continue to hold the treat with one hand and lightly press on their back end (above their tail along their spine) with your other hand- pushing them to sit their bottom on the ground. Continue this command over and over.
When dog is seated after you’ve said ‘sit’ reward the dog with the treat
When your dog does sit fully on the ground- reward your dog with the treat. A small treat is best, so you can do this over and over again without filling up their tummy. Repeat the process a few more times.
Take a break, then return to the command
Once your dog has successfully sat down after your ‘sit’ command 3 times, take a short break. After an hour or two, return to training and repeat the process. Eventually your dog should learn to sit without you pushing their butt to the ground. Each time your dog does sit with command, be sure to reward them with a treat or some kind of positive reinforcement (attention, praise, petting, etc.).
Hold treat directly in front of dog’s nose
Begin by holding a treat directly in front of your dog’s nose. This shows them that you have a reward for their behavior. Do not let them have the treat, but allow them to sniff it. If they attempt to bite it or take the treat, remove your hand from their reach. Bring the treat back to them once they quit trying to take it.
Say “Sit” and lightly press down on their back end
Be very clear and stern with your voice and say “Sit” somewhat loudly (do not shout- just annunciate clearly). As you say “sit” continue to hold the treat with one hand and lightly press on their back end (above their tail along their spine) with your other hand- pushing them to sit their bottom on the ground. Continue this command over and over.
When dog is seated after you’ve said ‘sit’ reward the dog with the treat
When your dog does sit fully on the ground- reward your dog with the treat. A small treat is best, so you can do this over and over again without filling up their tummy. Repeat the process a few more times.
Take a break, then return to the command
Once your dog has successfully sat down after your ‘sit’ command 3 times, take a short break. After an hour or two, return to training and repeat the process. Eventually your dog should learn to sit without you pushing their butt to the ground. Each time your dog does sit with command, be sure to reward them with a treat or some kind of positive reinforcement (attention, praise, petting, etc.).
