What Are The 7 Basic Commands for Dog Training Success

Training your dog is one of the best ways to build a strong and loving bond. By teaching them basic commands as early as the puppy stage, you create a foundation for better behavior, improved communication, and a safer environment for everyone.

But what are the 7 basic commands for dog training? These essential commands—like “sit” and “stay” — are simple yet powerful tools that help your dog understand what you expect from them. Mastering these skills not only makes daily life easier but also strengthens the trust between you and your furry friend.

This blog post will explore the 7 essential commands every dog should learn, from the simple “Sit” to the more complex “Leave It.” Whether you’re a new pet parent or looking to refresh your dog’s training, these commands are a great place to start.

Ready to learn more? Let’s embark on this journey towards a well-trained and happy canine companion!

1. Sit: The Starting Point of Obedience Dog Training

The “Sit” command is the cornerstone of dog training. It’s not just a cute trick; it’s a fundamental building block for all other commands.

Mastering “sit” establishes a clear line of communication with your dog, teaching them to respect your guidance and respond to your cues.

Step-by-Step Guide to Teaching Your Dog to Sit

Here’s how to teach your dog to sit:

Grab a treat – Hold a treat close to your dog’s nose to get their attention.
Move the treat up – Slowly raise the treat above their head. As they follow it with their eyes, their bottom will naturally lower to the ground.
Say “sit” – As soon as their bottom touches the ground, say “sit” and give them the treat.
Repeat and practice – Practice this several times a day in short sessions to help them learn.

Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them

If your dog gets distracted, move to a quieter location. Gradually introduce low-level distractions and reward them for staying focused.
If your dog jumps up while trying to get the treat, withhold the treat and ask them to sit first. Reward them only when they are calm and seated.
If your dog seems uninterested, make training sessions short and fun. Use high-value treats and keep the energy positive.

2. Stay: Building Patience and Control

The “Stay” command is crucial for your dog’s safety and your peace of mind. It teaches them patience, self-control, and the ability to remain calm in various situations.

Whether you’re trying to prevent them from jumping on guests, ensuring their safety near a busy road, or simply wanting them to hold their position while you grab something, “Stay” is an invaluable tool.

Techniques to Teach Your Dog to Stay in Place

Begin with short durations. Give the “Stay” command and hold your hand out in a stop gesture. Reward them immediately for remaining in place.
Gradually increase the duration of the “Stay.” Start with a few seconds and slowly extend it to minutes.
Once your dog can stay for a short period, start to increase the distance between you. Take a few steps away and then return to reward them.
Gradually introduce low-level distractions, such as noises or other people. Reward your dog for remaining calm and attentive.
Always use a release word like “Free” or “Okay” to signal that they are free to move.

Tips for Increasing Duration and Distance Over Time

Tips for success:

Be patient – Don’t expect your dog to master “Stay” overnight. It takes time and consistent practice.
Keep training sessions short and fun – Short, frequent training sessions are more effective than long, infrequent ones.
Reward calm behavior – Always reward your dog for remaining calm and attentive during the “Stay.”
Never punish – Punishing your dog for breaking a “Stay” will only increase their anxiety and make training more difficult.

3. Come: Ensuring Reliable Recall

A reliable “Come” command is absolutely crucial for your dog’s safety and your peace of mind. It allows you to enjoy off-leash adventures while maintaining control.

A strong recall keeps your dog safe in unexpected situations, like if they slip off their leash or wander too far at the park. It also gives them the freedom to explore, knowing they’ll return to you when needed. A reliable “come” command builds trust and strengthens your bond, making every outing more enjoyable.

Simple Methods to Teach The “Come” Command

How to teach the “come” command:

Start indoors – Begin in a quiet, distraction-free area.
Use a happy tone – Say your dog’s name followed by “come” in an upbeat, encouraging voice.
Reward immediately – When your dog comes to you, reward them with a treat, praise, or their favorite toy.
Practice often – Repeat the exercise multiple times daily, gradually increasing the distance.
Add distractions gradually – Once they’re consistent indoors, practice in more challenging environments like your yard or a park.

Troubleshooting When Your Dog Doesn’t Respond

If your dog seems uninterested, use high-value treats or an exciting toy to get their attention.
Never scold your dog for not coming right away. This could make them hesitant to respond in the future.
Keep training sessions brief and positive to prevent boredom.
For outdoor practice, a long leash allows your dog some freedom while keeping them under control.

4. Down: Encouraging Calm and Relaxation

The “down” command is a powerful tool for helping your dog stay calm and relaxed. It encourages your pet to settle in situations where excitement or anxiety might take over.

Teaching your dog to lie down on command not only improves their behavior but also helps them feel secure and in control, no matter what’s happening around them.

Benefits of Teaching “Down” to Your Dog

Promotes relaxation during stressful situations, like vet visits or loud events.
Helps manage overexcited behavior by giving your dog a clear way to settle.
Builds focus and discipline, making your dog more responsive to other commands.
Enhances safety by keeping your dog in one spot when needed.

How to Effectively Train Your Dog to Lie Down on Command

Start with a treat – Hold a treat close to your dog’s nose to grab their attention.
Move the treat down – Slowly lower the treat to the ground between their front paws.
Say “down” – As your dog follows the treat and lies down, say “down” in a calm voice.
Reward and praise – Once they’re lying down, immediately reward them with the treat and lots of praise.
Practice consistently – Repeat this exercise daily in short, positive sessions.

5. Leave It: Preventing Dangerous Behaviors

The “Leave It” command is a vital safety skill for your dog. It teaches them to resist the urge to grab or eat potentially harmful objects, such as dropped food, discarded trash, or even other animals. A reliable “Leave It” can prevent accidental poisonings, injuries, and even fights.

Steps to Train Your Dog to Ignore Tempting Objects

Start small – Place a treat in your hand and close your fist.
Show and wait – Let your dog sniff your hand. When they stop trying to get the treat, say “leave it” and reward them with a treat from your other hand.
Move to the floor – Place the treat on the ground and cover it with your hand. Repeat the process, rewarding them when they stop trying to get it.
Practice open treats – Gradually uncover the treat but reward only when your dog ignores it.
Add distance and distractions – Slowly increase the challenge by practicing in different environments with more tempting items.

Practice Tips to Reinforce The Command in Different Environments

At the park – Practice “Leave It” with dropped food, sticks, and other enticing objects.
On walks – Teach your dog to “Leave It” when they encounter dropped food, discarded trash, or other dogs.
At home – Practice with dropped food, toys, and any other tempting items they might find around the house.

6. Drop It: Handling Objects Safely

The “Drop It” command is essential for your dog’s safety and prevents potential conflicts. It teaches them to willingly release any object in their mouth, whether it’s a toy, a dropped shoe, or something they shouldn’t have. This prevents resource guarding, a common issue where dogs become possessive of their belongings, and minimizes the risk of accidental ingestion of harmful objects.

How to Teach Your Dog to Release Items Willingly

Start with a trade – Offer your dog a toy or item they like. Then present a high-value treat (like a small piece of chicken) and say “drop it.”
Reward immediately – The moment they release the item, give them the treat and praise enthusiastically.
Practice with different items – Once they understand the command, use it with various objects, starting with low-value items and working up to more tempting ones.
Stay positive – Always make “drop it” a rewarding experience. Avoid pulling items from their mouth, as this can create tension.

Games and Activities to Make Learning Fun and Engaging

Treasure Hunt – Hide a treat or toy and encourage your dog to find it. When they retrieve the item, say “Drop It” and reward them with a different treat.
“Tug-of-War” with a Trade-Off – Play a short game of tug-of-war with a rope toy. Then, say “Drop It” and offer a high-value treat as a reward.
“Fetch with a Twist” – Play fetch, but instead of throwing the ball back to you, have them drop it at your feet and then give the command “Fetch.”

7. Heel: Walking in Harmony

The “Heel” command teaches your dog to walk calmly and attentively by your side, creating a pleasant and enjoyable walking experience for both of you.

A well-trained “Heel” not only enhances your dog’s obedience but also improves their overall behavior and makes navigating busy environments much easier.

Training Techniques for A Reliable “Heel” Command

Begin training in a quiet, distraction-free environment. Have your dog on a leash and hold a treat near your leg.
As you start to walk, gently guide your dog to walk beside you using the treat.
Once your dog is walking beside you, say “Heel” in a clear and calm voice.
Reward your dog frequently with treats, praise, and affection for walking calmly by your side.
Gradually increase the duration of your walks and introduce low-level distractions.

Common Leash-Walking Issues and How to Address Them

Pulling on the leash – Stop walking immediately when your dog pulls. Resume only when the leash is slack to teach them pulling doesn’t get them anywhere.
Lagging behind – Use an upbeat tone or treats to encourage your dog to keep pace with you.
Getting distracted – Practice focus exercises, like rewarding your dog for looking at you, to keep their attention on you during walks.
Excitement around other dogs – Maintain a safe distance and use the “heel” command to redirect their focus back to you.

Empowering Your Dog Through Training

Training your dog with these 7 basic commands is more than just about obedience — it’s about building trust, communication, and a strong bond. These commands lay the foundation for a safer, happier, and more harmonious life together.

Whether it’s teaching your dog to “sit” for calmness, “stay” for safety, or “heel” for enjoyable walks, each skill plays a vital role in shaping a well-behaved and confident companion.

By mastering these commands, you’re empowering your dog to thrive in any situation. A trained dog is not only more confident but also more relaxed, making life easier and more enjoyable for both of you.

Start training your dog now!

Now is the perfect time to begin teaching your dog these essential commands.

Use our blog as your go-to resource for tips, advice, and step-by-step guidance.

Need extra support? Contact us today to learn more about how we can assist you in building a stronger bond with your furry friend. We offer professional training services to help you achieve your dog training goals.

Let’s create a future filled with trust, joy, and incredible moments with your furry friend. Start training today and see the difference it makes!