8 Things You Should Know When Learning How To Train A Dog To Sit

Learning how to train a dog to sit is an important task for any new dog owner. Training can begin as soon as the puppy is in his new home. While it may not seem important to teach this to your puppy right off the bat, it is a cornerstone to developing a relationship with your dog. Here are some steps on how to train a dog to sit.

1. This first step is deceptively easy. All you have to do is say the word "sit" when you see your puppy sitting down on it's own initiative. This way, the puppy understands that the word you are trying to make him learn, relate to his current actions. You can use this basic tip in all other forms of training.

2. Find the dog a delectable treat and place one in your hand. The puppy should be able to swallow the treat quickly and easily so be sure it is small.

3. Get down to your puppies level. You will appear less threatening to the dog if you are on his level. More importantly, you can reward him faster if you're sitting on the floor.

4. Get your dog to sit on his own by moving the treat over the puppy's head in a very slow movement. He will get him to follow its movement with he's nose because of the smell it emits. By doing so, he'll have two choices: He could back up, or he could just sit down. Considering that sitting down is the easiest thing to do, he will do just that.

5. The instant the dog sits, say "sit" and offer the treat. The timing of the reward is the most important part of training. It must be given exactly when the dog does the behavior you want.

6. Now shower your dog with praise so he knows he did a good thing.

7. This is something you could continue to practice 3-5 times a day. Don't over do it though, as moderation is important, unless you are able to make these steps as fun for the dog as they are for you.

8. Now try the same thing but standing up. See if you can get the dog to sit without the aid of a treat. When he does, heap on the praise. Be sure that you never punish him if he does not sit, but wait patiently for him to sit and then praise him.

Next, you should strengthen the word so that the dog sits regardless of any distractions. This is a never ending process and you should not cease training. Every new situation should be used to train him. Use new people, new dogs, and new surroundings as training opportunities.

Learning how to train a dog to sit on command is not that difficult. Start when your dog is a puppy and, not only will you teach it to sit, but you will find that they love to do other tricks with you as well. By training your dog as a puppy, you will get the dog used to hearing its own name, acting on your command, and being an active participant for other activities. This will get your dog use to having you in charge and make the dog more secure in being part of your family!

About the Author

Find out how to train your dog to be perfectly behaved at http://www.positivedogtrainingtechniques.com/ where you can learn the dog training techniques that will teach your dog to sit, eliminate bad behaviors and turn your unruly pet into your best friend.