What are basic commands for the dog

Learn what the basic commands for a dog are, with tips on how to teach them through positive reinforcement training, which helps maintain a healthier and happier relationship with your pet. Dog training is much more than obedience training; it brings many benefits to your experiences with your furry friends.

Moreover, when dogs understand their owner’s commands, it becomes easier to establish boundaries and prevent behavior problems. Are you curious to know what the basic commands for a dog are? Then continue reading this article.

Basic commands for dogs – Know what they are and how to teach them

Basic commands for dogs encourage public interaction and help maintain the pet’s obedience. However, it is not always easy to teach your dog these training tricks. Patience is necessary, and if possible, start when the dog is still a puppy.

To help you train your little friend, we have listed below some easy commands with tips on how to practice them with your dog.

Command “Sit”

The “sit” trick is one of the easiest commands to teach, as it is a common practice for dogs. However, this instruction can help the dog understand the correct way to ask for food without jumping on the owner’s legs.

1. Take the reward in your hand and let the dog smell the treat.
2. Keep the dog’s attention by holding the treat in front of you.
3. Then say the word “sit” or “sit,” moving the treat over the dog’s head.
4. You will notice that he sits naturally, or if he doesn’t, repeat the movement with the treat over his head until he performs the behavior.
5. After the dog sits, offer the reward for him to eat and speak words of affection, such as “Very well.”

It is important to repeat the command to the dog whenever possible until he starts performing the command without the reinforcement of the reward.

Command “Stay” or “Stay close”

If you want the dog to stay close during walks or when receiving visitors, this basic training command is suitable for this situation.

1. When the dog is sitting, position yourself next to him.
2. Put on the collar and, with the palm of your hand in front of the dog, say one of the words: “stay” or “close.”
3. Wait a few seconds until he calms down, take two steps back, and see if he moves from the spot.
4. If he remains quiet in place, reinforce with the phrase “Good boy,” offer a reward, and affection.
5. When he moves from the spot, repeat this process until he understands the command.

However, during walks, use the same command for the dog to stay close, keeping the leash shorter for him to understand that he needs to stay next to the owner.

Command “Leave it”

The “leave it” command is great for practicing the dog’s obedience, helping him learn when it is necessary to move away from an object or situation.

1. Use the “sit” trick to keep the dog sitting.
2. Take a treat he likes or a toy and place it in front of him.
3. Say the word “leave it” and keep your hands close to the treat.
4. If he comes towards the object, cover it with your hand and repeat the command “leave it” or “let go.”
5. Wait for him to sit, remove your hand from the object, and repeat the command.

As he can sit longer in the same place, reward him with dog treats and lots of affection.

Command “Come here”

This basic command is for an energetic dog that does not obey when the owner calls, being one of the tricks that help with other training instructions.

1. At a distance from the dog, take a treat in your hand and say “come here” to your little friend.
2. Squat and show the reward until he comes to you.
3. When he comes, give him the treat and speak words of affection.
4. Repeat this command without a treat and in another environment.
5. If the dog does not come to you, use the treat again to reinforce it.

This shows how important positive reinforcement is in training. It allows basic commands for dogs to be respectful and enjoyable for both the owner and the pet. Therefore, it is a smart way to teach the dog a movement or behavior without the need to fight or swear. Also, never use foul or offensive language. This makes the dog understand nothing and still feel bad.

If you notice any difficulty for the dog to understand a command, do not hesitate to repeat it until he understands. Patience and calmness are essential for positive results. Give your dog time and take good care of him.