All About The Basics

Here are the four basic cues:

* Sit

* Down

* Stay

* Come 

The “Basics” form the foundation of all pet dog training. They are the building block cues that encourage manners, polite greetings and ensure a safe environment for your dog. Additional training builds from here. A solid foundation in these cues not only provides for a well mannered dog, creates a safe environment for them but most importantly…mastering these skills builds a trusting bond with your dog you will feel and enjoy their entire lives.

Sit: This is the most important of the basics as it can be used for so many situations. A sit requires all four paws on the ground. So it is useful to curb jumping, over excitement, cues a dog to accept being petted by a stranger, cues the dog for welcoming family and friends into the home and so many other uses. It is also the best cue for beginning a sequence of commands.

Down: Helps cue the dog to relax and settle. Best taught with a sit first and then cue the dog to a down. Also helps with dogs who like to enthusiastically launch into a jumping greeting as it is easier to read your dog’s body language from a down vs. a sit and takes longer for the dog to move from a down than out of a sit. Also great for if your goal is taking your dog to cafes or other outdoor dining.

Stay: This cue helps keep dogs out of trouble and for you to know where your dog is and the confidence they will stay there. Helpful for door manners to keep a dog from rushing the door and over enthusiastically greeting visitors. Having a strong stay cue keeps your dog safe and well mannered.

Come: A reliable recall is the most important of the basics for safety reasons. If your dog comes to you when called your dog will get into much less trouble.