Ever wished your furry friend could read your mind? While telepathy might be out of reach, research shows dogs have an incredible capacity for learning and problem-solving that goes beyond simple obedience.
According to a study, findings showed that dogs were able to apply the concept of repetition to new situations.1 This means teaching your dog commands not only strengthens your bond but also provides mental stimulation that prevents boredom and destructive behaviors.
Here’s 10 commands that will transform your relationship with your dog.
1. Come
This command is crucial for your dog’s safety. It teaches them to return to you immediately when called, preventing them from running into dangerous situations like traffic.
Teaching “come” involves positive reinforcement with treats and praise, gradually increasing the distance and distractions.
2. Sit
A basic yet essential command for everyday life. It helps manage your dog’s behavior in various situations, such as greeting guests or waiting patiently before meals.
“Sit” is relatively easy to teach using hand signals and verbal cues, rewarding your dog with treats when they comply.
3. Stay
This command builds on “sit” and teaches your dog to remain in a specific position until released. It’s helpful for preventing jumping on people, waiting at doors, and staying calm in busy environments.
Teaching “stay” requires patience and gradual increases in duration, rewarding your dog for holding the position.
4. Leave it
This command is invaluable for preventing your dog from picking up potentially harmful objects or eating food off the ground. It teaches them to ignore something you tell them to, strengthening your control and their impulse control.
“Leave it” is taught using distractions like toys or treats, rewarding your dog when they don’t engage with the object.
5. Drop it
Similar to “leave it,” this command teaches your dog to release something they have in their mouth. It’s helpful for retrieving toys, avoiding chewing on inappropriate items, and preventing resource guarding.
“Drop it” is taught by exchanging the object for a treat or toy, encouraging your dog to willingly let go.
6. Speak
This command is fun and can be helpful for alerting you to someone at the door or potential danger. Teaching “speak” usually involves getting your dog excited and rewarding them when they bark on cue.
You can then use a different cue word like “quiet” to teach them when to stop barking.
7. Shake
While not essential, “shake” is a classic trick that’s both fun to teach and a great way to show off your dog’s skills. To teach it, gently lift your dog’s paw and say “shake” while giving them a treat.
Repeat this process, and soon they’ll learn to offer their paw on command.
8. Roll Over
This trick is adorable and demonstrates your dog’s willingness to follow your lead. To teach it, start with your dog in a down position. Lure them onto their side with a treat, then continue luring them all the way over onto their back and then back to their feet.
Use the cue “roll over” throughout the process, and reward them when they complete the full roll.
9. Fetch
This classic game is a great way to exercise your dog both mentally and physically. Start by throwing a toy a short distance and encouraging your dog to bring it back.
When they return with the toy, say “drop it” and offer a treat. Repeat this process, gradually increasing the distance of the throw.
10. Heel
While not as essential as the previous commands, “heel” is useful for walking your dog politely on a leash. It teaches them to walk calmly by your side, preventing pulling and making walks more enjoyable for both of you.
“Heel” requires consistent practice and rewards, guiding your dog with the leash and treats.
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Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.