Command: “Down”
Training Steps:
- Introduce the Command: With your dog in the ‘Sit’ position, hold a treat in your hand and move it slowly towards the ground, saying “Down.”
- Guide the Motion: Lead the treat between the dog’s front paws and gently encourage the body downwards. Most dogs will follow their nose and lie down.
- Reward Immediately: Once your dog lies down, give the treat and offer plenty of praise. The timing of the reward is crucial for making the association clear.
- Repeat and Extend: Practice this regularly, increasing the time your dog remains in the ‘Down’ position before receiving a treat.
Explanation: The “Down” command is useful for calming and controlling your dog in various situations. It is a submissive posture that can help manage excitable behaviors and is also a building block for more advanced training.
Use Case: This command is particularly useful in situations requiring your dog to be less imposing, like when small children or elderly visitors are present. It keeps the dog in a controlled state, preventing jumping or overly enthusiastic greetings.