Your dog wants to obey you and be your best friend. Every ounce of his being quivers with desire to please you. But you have to be his best friend, too, and training him to sit and stay are basic behaviors that will not only protect his life, but open the door for additional, more complex training.
If your best pal is one that easily becomes hysterical with delight and is difficult to control, you will want to teach him to sit using the Gentle Manipulation method. Simply elevate your dog. This defines your dog’s place and also prevents stress on your back. Make sure that you have a leash attached to your dog’s collar.
As soon as your dog is calm, place one hand on his chest and another on the lower part of his back near the base of his tail. As you gently rock him into the sitting position, say the word “Sit”. When this is accomplished, reward him by petting and praising him. Eventually, he will understand what you are requiring of him and he will begin to sit just before you touch him as you say the word “Sit”. The “Sit” word will become the cue and he will have mastered this new behavior.
Most dogs respond well to the Sit training using the Treat Method. Again, place your dog in an elevated area and hold a treat approximately 3 to 4 inches over his head, moving it towards his tail. Naturally, he now has to sit in order to watch the treat. As he does so, say “Sit”. Eventually, you can fade out the treat but still say the word “Sit”. He now recognizes his cue, and together you have accomplished the first command.
Of course, you’re proud of the hard work and accomplishments your best friend has made with Sitting and Staying. But reward him by walking to him while he is in the Stay position rather than calling him to you and then rewarding him. Otherwise, he will become confused about why he is being praised. You will need to be consistent with rewarding him while he is in one spot.
Two to four minutes is the appropriate length of time for each training session. Stay alert for signs of boredom or restlessnessthat’s your cue that it’s time to end the session. Be sure that your goals are clear before you begin this endeavor and most importantly, be consistent in praising and rewarding your dog for his willingness to be obedient.
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