Training your dog isn’t just about teaching commands—it’s about building a strong bond, improving obedience, and ensuring a well-behaved pet. Consistency is key, and practicing these five fundamental exercises daily will help your dog become a well-mannered companion. These exercises are simple, effective, and can be done at home with minimal effort.
1. Sit and Stay
The “Sit” and “Stay” commands are among the most basic but essential exercises in dog training. They teach patience, impulse control, and discipline.
How to Train:
- Hold a treat close to your dog’s nose.
- Move your hand upward, causing their head to follow, which naturally makes them sit.
- Once they sit, say “Sit” and reward them with the treat.
- To teach “Stay,” ask them to sit first, then take a step back while saying “Stay.” Reward them if they remain still.
- Gradually increase the time and distance before rewarding.
Why It’s Important:
This exercise prevents jumping on people, helps manage excitement, and keeps your dog calm in various situations.
2. Come When Called (Recall Training)
A reliable recall can keep your dog safe in emergencies and strengthen their responsiveness to your commands.
How to Train:
- Start in a distraction-free area and kneel down with a treat or toy.
- Say your dog’s name followed by “Come” in an excited, encouraging tone.
- When they reach you, reward them immediately.
- Gradually increase the distance, and practice in different environments.
Why It’s Important:
Teaching recall ensures your dog will return to you when off-leash or in potentially dangerous situations.
3. Leave It / Drop It
Dogs are naturally curious and will pick up anything they find interesting, sometimes dangerous items. Teaching “Leave it” and “Drop it” can prevent accidents.
How to Train:
- Hold a treat in your hand and close your fist when your dog tries to sniff or lick it.
- Say “Leave it” and wait for them to lose interest. Once they back away, reward them with a different treat.
- For “Drop it,” give your dog a toy, then offer a higher-value treat while saying “Drop it.”
- When they release the object, reward them immediately.
Why It’s Important:
This command can prevent your dog from eating harmful substances or destroying household items.
4. Loose Leash Walking
Walking on a leash without pulling is essential for enjoyable and stress-free walks.
How to Train:
- Start indoors or in a quiet area. Hold a treat at your side to keep your dog’s attention.
- Begin walking, and if they pull, stop immediately.
- Only continue walking when the leash is loose. Reward your dog when they walk beside you.
- Practice in different environments with increasing distractions.
Why It’s Important:
Loose leash walking prevents pulling, making walks more pleasant and controlled for both you and your dog.
5. Place / Settle Command
Teaching your dog to go to a designated spot and settle down helps with impulse control and relaxation.
How to Train:
- Choose a mat or bed as the “Place.”
- Guide your dog onto it with a treat and say “Place” or “Settle.”
- Reward them when they stay on the mat.
- Gradually increase the duration before rewarding, and introduce distractions.
Why It’s Important:
This exercise teaches your dog to relax on command, reducing anxiety and unwanted behaviors like excessive barking or jumping.
Conclusion
Practicing these five exercises daily will create a well-trained, well-mannered dog. Training isn’t just about commands—it’s about building trust, communication, and understanding. Keep sessions short, positive, and fun, and you’ll see amazing progress in your dog’s behavior.
