Basic Commands Every Dog And Owner Should Know

So there are five commands which I think every dog and owner should know and practice routinely.

Sit

 This is one of the most easiest commands and even a puppy can catch on to it rather quickly. Tell your dog to "Sit". Hold a treat or hover your hand over his head and usually the dog will automatically sit from looking up. If not push his butt down gently till he is in sitting position. Praise your dog and tell him/her "Good Dog!" excitedly.

Lay Down

Yet another command that is easily taught. Tell your dog to "Lay Down" Use your hand to signal down or use a treat lowered to the ground until he is in laying position. You can also physically put him in the laying position gently. Praise your dog.

Drop It/Leave it/Give It

This command is a bit more difficult especially if you have a alpha dog. Play with your dog with a favorite toy of his. Avoid food or bones as they are highly prized items and your dog will be less likely to follow the command and these things can often create food/possession aggression . Hold out your hand and say the command of your choosing. If your dog immediately drops the toy on the floor or in your hand praise him. If he refuses to drop it take the toy from him gently and say the command and give it back to him repeat till he gets it. If you have a alpha dog on your hands your going to have to be a bit more careful but firmer with your command as well. Don't ever allow your dog to growl or snap at you! If this type of behavior starts tread carefully. If at anytime this occurs, as soon as you dog drops the toy pick up and tell him "No!" firmly.

If possession/guarding aggression behavior continues or worsens seek help from a professional dog trainer.

Come To Me/Bring It To Me

This command is a hit and miss. If you have a puppy this should be pretty easy since they follow you around and trip you over whenever they get a chance. If your inside your home/your fenced backyard just tell your dog to "Come, (dog's name!)". Every time your dog comes to you when called praise him/her excitedly or with a food reward. If you are outside at a park or something or other always have your dog on a leash. A lunge leash (super long leash) works great for recall. Never scold you dog when he comes to you! Never chase your dog he will just think your playing! If your pup is coming to you with no problems and knows the command "Drop it" you can kick it up a notch and add a ball or stick and teach him "Fetch."

Heel

All dogs should be taught how to properly walk on a leash. I gringe every time I see a dog dragging a person behind them from excessive pulling. A dog should be taught to walk beside you or slightly behind you for safety reasons. Never allow your dog to pull you around! Only use a retractable leash if you know how to use it properly, do not just let your dog wonder wherever he/she wants. They can get tangled or th leash can even snap if you don't have the right weight tension. It can be dangerous so I suggest sticking with a normal length nylon leash.When you go for a walk if your dog begins to pull you slightly tug the leash then release and say "Heel!" firmly. If your dog stops and looks at you praise him and continue to walk. Repeat as necessary till he learns to walk at a slower pace and in the position of being beside you or behind you. If you have a shy/fearful dog that refuses to walk on a leash please never drag the dog or scold the dog. Take things slower even if the dog walks a few steps praise and reward.