How to Train Your Dog to Sit – Easy Step-by-Step Guide
You will find one of the first commands one can teach your dog is to sit and with good reason.It is simple, convenient and it is the foundation of more complex obedience training. No matter whether a person has a young puppy, or an old dog, the command to sit can be taught to ease and make everyday life more enjoyab
However, despite being easy on paper, most of the owners are faced with the challenge of having difficulty with the process or concerns that they might be doing it wrong. This tutorial will give you step-by-step instructions on how you can train your dog to sit using the techniques that are proven to be effective by the pet behaviorists and the best dog trainers that are recommended by the the authorities in pet care.Pet Fresh Supplies we provide enough information for the pet owners to be informed about their pets
Why Teaching “Sit” Is So Important
Sit command assists you in controlling your dog during many occasions such as welcoming guests to the house amicably, or holding your dog until you cross the road. The American Kennel Club (AKC) also says it is an important aspect of teaching impulse control and focus in dogs.
Veterinarian and pet behavior consultant, Dr. Jennifer Coates, says:
It is not a gimmick to teach that you should sit but rather a communication thing. A dog learning this fundamental can be more easily directed and is safer in the company of others and is more thought-provoking in a mental sense.
When and Where to Start Training
Dogs may start simple level training at the age of 7-8 weeks, but the elder dogs can also have the same level of training with patience and consistency. The trick lies in beginning in a distraction free, and quiet place. After you have trained your dog to obey the command at home, you can then slowly train them to obey it in more distracting environments such as the park.
The following is a basic setting check list:
- Calm and quiet space
- Treats or rewards handy
- Leash or collar (optional)
- Positive attitude
Step-by-Step: How to Train Your Dog to Sit
The training must always be reward-based and positive. This is the most commonly recommended procedure, and it is approved by both PetMD and The Humane Society of the United States:
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1. Get Your Dog’s Attention
Use the name of your dog to draw his attention. Keep a sweet near their nose in order to keep them entertained.
2. Use the Lure Technique
Gradually raise the treat upwards and then you will see the head of the dog trailing after the treat and the bottom just dropping to the ground. When they sit, say, in a clear and calm voice, Sit.
3. Reward Immediately
The minute your dog gets on the ground, give him the treat and praise him in an enthusiastic way. Dogs relate the reward and action and therefore timing is key.
You can read the specific dog breeds article for more details on dogs
4. Repeat and Reinforce
Do this 5- 10 minutes a day in small intervals. Slowly fade out the treat and keep on praising. This assists in making sure that the command sticks are not required to have food every time.
5. Use Hand Signals
The more regularly your dog becomes, the more you should associate the word Sit with a gesture of the hand – an open palm upwards.In the long-term, your dog will learn to identify the two.
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Troubleshooting Common Problems
In case it is not being received by your dog, do not be concerned because there are breeds that are more independent or distracted by their nature. When your dog does not sit but is jumping he is closer to his nose, drop the treat. When they walk away, attempt to train them a little bit hungry or utilize more valuable food items such as chicken or cheese.It is recommended by professional dog trainer Victoria Stilwell, the host of It’s Me or the Dog:
Patience is non-negotiable. Dogs learn most effectively when they are in a fun and pressure free setting. Don’t yell or punish, it kills trust and stifles learning.
You may want to read about other Dog Breeds
How Long Does It Take to Teach a Dog to Sit?
Most dogs can be successfully trained to sit within several days to an average of one week with training each day and a little more since some dogs require more repetition because of a low attention span.
Being regular is more significant than being quick. Even a 5-10 minutes a day exercise, 7 days a week will be useful enough as compared to one large session made after a week.
You may want to read about Feeding Your Cat Right: How to Choose the Best Food
Frequently Asked Questions
What if my dog refuses to sit?
You can also use a more valuable treat and make sure that you are not repeating the command without an action. Stop, command once, and as a guide have the treat. In case you are having trouble, it might be better to seek an experienced dog trainer.
Can I train an older dog to sit?
Absolutely. Elderly dogs are as capable of learning new commands as young ones but it may take them a little longer to adapt to the changes in case they have never been trained on it. Repeat positive reinforcement methods, and wait.
How many times a day should I practice the “sit” command?
The duration of sessions ranges between 2-3 times in a day. Dogs prefer to be taught in brief sessions. Doing the same command repeatedly during the same sitting can either be boring or frustrating.
Should I use treats forever?
No. Treats are applied first in order to strengthen the behavior. Once your dog learns the command, begin to replace them with praise, affection or play.
Can I teach sit without treats?
Yes, though it is more difficult, at least at the start. Dogs are better motivated when a tangible reward is immediate. Verbal praise or toys can also be effective, once the behavior has been learned.
Final Thoughts
One of the most effective methods of creating a strong communication channel with your furry friend is training your dog into sitting. You can teach your dog to sit, and much more: not only how to sit, but also how to listen, trust, enjoy the learning process with you, all with only a few minutes a day, some patience, and plenty of praise.You can find more professional tips at such sites like PetMD, the American Kennel Club, and expert advice on what to do at each step of teaching your dog different things to make him or her a good companion.
