Teaching Your Dog the Top 10 Essential Behaviours
- The PATS Team
- Jan 24
- 3 min read
Updated: Mar 24
Introduction
Dogs thrive on clear communication and structure. Basic behaviours (skills) are essential for their safety, behaviour, and well-being. These behaviours ensure that your dog listens in various situations and strengthen your bond with them. That’s why we believe every dog should know these 10 essential behaviours.
A Step-by-Step Guide to Teaching the Top 10 Behaviours Every Dog Should Know
Teaching your dog these essential behaviours can enhance their safety and your enjoyment of having them around. Below is a detailed guide to help you teach each behaviour effectively.
1. Sit
Why It’s Important: A foundational behaviour that helps calm your dog and focus their attention.
How to Teach It:
Hold a treat close to your dog’s nose.
Slowly move the treat upward. Their head follows, and their bottom lowers to the ground.
As soon as they sit, say “Yes” and give them the treat.
Practice in short, frequent sessions.
2. Stay
Why It’s Important: Helps keep your dog safe and in place when needed.
How to Teach It:
Ask your dog to “Sit.”
Open your palm in front of their face and say “Stay.”
Count to one, say "Yes," and reinforce the behaviour.
Gradually increase the duration by one second at a time.
Complete ten successful repetitions before moving on. If they struggle, stay at the current level.
Always release them with a word like “Okay” when done.
3. Come (Recall)
Why It’s Important: Essential for safety, especially in off-leash situations.
How to Teach It:
Use a leash or a long line in a controlled area.
Say your dog’s name, followed by “Come,” in an upbeat tone.
Reward them with treats and praise for coming to you.
Gradually increase distractions and distance as they improve.
4. Down (Lie Down)
Why It’s Important: Promotes calm behaviour and can be used in various settings.
How to Teach It:
Start with your dog in a “Sit” position.
Hold a treat near their nose, then move it downward toward the ground.
Once their body follows the treat, say “Yes” and reinforce them.
Be patient; some dogs may take time to understand.
5. Leave It
Why It’s Important: Prevents your dog from picking up harmful or unwanted objects.
How to Teach It:
Place a treat in your closed hand and show it to your dog.
When they sniff or paw at your hand, softly say “Leave It.”
Once they stop and pull back, reinforce them with a different treat from your other hand.
Gradually introduce objects on the floor and practice.
6. Drop It
Why It’s Important: Ensures your dog releases objects, especially dangerous ones.
How to Teach It:
Offer your dog a toy they enjoy.
Hold a treat near their nose and say “Drop It.”
When they release the toy, reinforce them immediately.
Repeat until they respond consistently.
7. Heel
Why It’s Important: Encourages polite walking without pulling on the leash.
How to Teach It:
With your dog on a leash, hold a treat by your side.
Start walking, keeping the treat close to your leg.
Say “Heel” and reinforce them when they walk beside you.
Gradually phase out the treat and practice regularly.
8. Wait
Why It’s Important: Teaches your dog to pause before proceeding, ensuring safety.
How to Teach It:
Use “Wait” at important thresholds (e.g., before crossing a door or road).
Hold your hand up like a stop signal and say “Wait.”
Reinforce them when they pause.
Release them with “Okay” and practice in various situations.
9. Watch Me (Focus)
Why It’s Important: Ensures your dog pays attention to you, especially in distracting environments.
How to Teach It:
Hold a treat near your face and say “Watch Me.”
Reinforce your dog as soon as they make eye contact.
Gradually increase the duration of eye contact before rewarding.
10. Off
Why It’s Important: Prevents jumping on people, furniture, or counters.
How to Teach It:
Redirect them to a “Sit” or “Down” cue and reinforce calm behaviour.
Consistency is crucial; avoid reinforcing jumping with attention.
Practice with your dog on a leash to encourage the desired behaviour.
Tips for Success
Consistency is Key: Use the same cues every time you train.
Keep Sessions Short: Aim for 5–10 minutes per session to maintain your dog’s focus.
Use Positive Reinforcement: Reinforce desired behaviours with treats, praise, or play.
Practice Regularly: Reinforce cues in different environments and with distractions.
Conclusion
Teaching these 10 behaviours is a fantastic way to ensure your dog is well-behaved, safe, and a joy to be around. Remember, patience and consistency will lead to success. Start small, celebrate progress, and enjoy the journey of building a stronger bond with your furry friend!
If you require additional help in teaching your dog these foundations, then 👉 check out my Online Beginners Course.
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