How to Train a Dog to Sit

By Julia Fuller

Instructions

Things You’ll Need:

Dog
Leash
Collar
Treats

Step 1:
Show your dog a lot of positive attention and encouragement during the training process. Use phrases like, "Good dog," frequently accompanied by pats on the head. Don't expect your dog to learn to sit in one training session and don't make the training sessions an hour long. Consider your dog's age and current attention span when deciding how long a training session should be. For example, a puppy's training session might only be two minutes.
Step 2:
Place a soft collar and a leash on your dog for the training sessions. This will help you control your dog and apply pressure to help the dog understand what you want.
Step 3:
Speak firmly to your dog using short commands, preferably one word. Say, "Sit," only once. At the same time pull up slightly on the dog's collar and use your palm to push down on the dog's hindquarters. Don't stop until the dog is in the sitting position.
Step 4:
Praise your dog, pet your dog and hug your dog. Show your dog how happy you are and offer a small treat.
Step 5:
Speak firmly again saying, "Sit." Remember that all commands should only be given once. Pull up slightly on the dog's collar and use your palm to push down on the dog's hindquarters. Remember not to stop until the dog is in the sitting position. Repeat the steps a few times and then give your dog a break.
Step 6:
Play with your dog during break time and have fun. Think of it as elementary school recess.

Tips & Warnings

Use very small treats during training as you do not want an obese and unhealthy dog.
If your dog is food aggressive it might be best to avoid treats and just use praise and love.

Photo/Video Credit

Photos by Julia Fuller 2008

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