Teaching a puppy to sit is one of the dog training basics you should learn from the start. Dogs are instinctively very good at following commands, but you have to make sure that your commands are clear and easily understood. You can use a clicker or a verbal release command to teach puppy to sit. Most puppies will sit on command within two days. This article contains information on how to teach puppy to sit with the clicker and the verbal release command.
A sit-stay-fetch technique was originally developed for dogs with large dogs (over 40 pounds) who were often left outside to chase after things. The sit-stay-fetch works by holding a treat above the dog’s head until he learns to sit, then rewarding him with the treat whenever he follows your command to sit. In this manner, the dog learns to anticipate the behavior.
It is not very difficult to teach a dog to sit on command. Simply begin by sitting in a comfortable spot where you dog can see you. Take a treat, such as a steak, out in front of you. Make sure the dog can at least see the food. Speak quietly while you hold the treat above his head. The dog has to look up into your eyes while you are speaking, otherwise, he will get scared and will not understand what you are trying to teach him.
You do not need to use the sit-stay-fetch technique if your dog is a young puppy. If the dog starts to become nervous and scared while being trained, stop the training and bring the dog back to an acceptable behavior. Remember that dogs can only be taught one thing at a time. The sit command is not the complete dog training package. As with most dog training techniques, consistency is important. If a dog is consistently disobedient, it means he is not receiving enough practice.
To make the sit-stay-fetch technique work, your dog must be able to understand and follow the basic instructions of sit, stay, come and lay down. The sit command should be followed while standing calmly in one place. The dog should be on a leash and you should have control over the dog’s direction of travel. Do not let the dog run ahead of you. If the dog tries to escape, return to the sitting position and remain in the same position until the dog calms down. Use positive reinforcement to encourage the dog to follow your commands.
To reinforce the sit-stay-fetch technique, start by giving treats for compliance. After several training sessions, start off by using only your voice. Praise the dog only when it sits. Only use the sit command when you see the dog sit. It is also important not to yell the word “sit” at the dog until after he has sat.
If the dog shows signs that he is about to urinate or defecate, stop the training and take him to the designated spot until he has relieved himself. Do not push or pull on the dog while he is defecating. Do not scold the dog for urinating or defecating in inappropriate areas.
If you are wondering how to teach puppy to sit, the sit command works because dogs are natural pack animals. He wants to be the leader of your pack. To teach puppy to sit properly, start off by building up his confidence. Do not use the sit command all the time. Gradually increase the number of times you say the sit command and eventually, the sit-stay-fetch will work perfectly.