How to Teach Your Dog Basic Commands: Sit, Stay, and Come

Training your dog to follow basic commands like sit, stay, and come is an essential part of responsible pet ownership. Not only does it improve obedience and safety, but it also strengthens the bond between you and your furry companion. Whether you’re training a puppy or an older dog, these commands form the foundation for good behavior. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to teach your dog these essential commands effectively.

1. The Importance of Basic Commands

Basic commands are more than just tricks; they’re vital tools for managing your dog’s behavior in everyday situations. Teaching your dog to sit, stay, and come:

• Enhances their safety by preventing accidents or dangerous situations.

• Builds trust and communication between you and your dog.

• Provides mental stimulation that keeps your dog engaged and happy.

2. How to Teach “Sit”

The “sit” command is one of the easiest and most useful commands to teach.

Steps:

1. Hold a treat close to your dog’s nose.

2. Move the treat upward, causing your dog to tilt their head and naturally lower their rear end.

3. As soon as their bottom touches the ground, say “sit” and reward them with the treat and praise.

4. Repeat several times a day until your dog associates the word “sit” with the action.

3. How to Teach “Stay”

The “stay” command teaches your dog patience and impulse control.

Steps:

1. Start with your dog in a sitting position.

2. Hold your hand out, palm facing your dog, and say “stay.”

3. Take a step back. If your dog stays, reward them with a treat and praise.

4. Gradually increase the distance and duration, always rewarding successful attempts.

5. If your dog moves, calmly guide them back to the starting position and try again.

4. How to Teach “Come”

The “come” command is crucial for ensuring your dog returns to you when called, especially in outdoor or off-leash situations.

Steps:

1. Attach a long leash to your dog in a safe, distraction-free environment.

2. Kneel down, say “come,” and gently tug the leash while offering a treat or toy.

3. Reward your dog when they reach you and give plenty of praise.

4. Practice in different environments, gradually increasing distractions to reinforce the command.

5. Tips for Successful Training

• Keep Sessions Short: Dogs have limited attention spans, so aim for 5–10 minute sessions.

• Be Consistent: Use the same words and gestures every time you train.

• Use Positive Reinforcement: Reward your dog with treats, praise, or playtime to reinforce good behavior.

• Stay Patient: Every dog learns at their own pace. Avoid punishment, as it can create fear and confusion.

6. Progress to Advanced Commands

Once your dog masters basic commands, consider teaching more advanced skills like “leave it” or “heel” to further enhance their behavior and responsiveness.

Teaching your dog basic commands is a rewarding experience that improves their obedience and your bond with them. With patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement, you’ll have a well-trained and happy companion in no time. For more training tips and resources, visit our Dog Care Library or download our free dog app to connect with other dog lovers.