Basic Puppy Training Commands

The first of basic puppy training commands that you need to teach your pup is the 'sit' command. As the name suggests, when commanded, your pup should stop whatever it is doing and just sit wherever it is. This is basic puppy training 101, and won't take a lot of time if done correctly. To teach your dog to sit, bring it in an open environment, where there aren't many distractions. Then, in a loud and clear voice, speak out the word 'Sit'. At first, the dog won't notice. But once you have its attention, ask it to sit. Give it a few tries as the dog attempts to understand what it is you want from it. If it doesn't sit on its own, make the pup sit with your hand. If it does sit, give it a treat and actively praise the pup. Give the command again, and wait for the dog to sit, reinforcing it with a treat when it does. Continue this, and your dog will have learnt the word by heart soon enough!

COME

The come command is also known as the recall command, as it is used to bring the dog over to you. How do you do this, you ask? Bring the dog over to an open location, and get it seated. Take a few paces back from the dog, so that you are at a healthy distance from it. From there, shout the dog's name, followed by a clear 'come!' Clap your hands a few times and bend so that the dog understands you are trying to call it over. As soon as the dog approaches you, give it a treat and reinforce the behaviour. Repeat for maximum effect! And that is all! It won't be very long before your favourite puppy begins coming over to you when called!

Stay

The stay command, when taught properly, will stop the dog from doing whatever it is engaged in and stay in its position. Teaching the stay command requires you to use your hand as well, showing the dog a flat palm. As always, bring the dog in an open area with minimal distractions. Wait until the dog is focused on you, and then speak in a loud and firm voice. Make sure you are very clear. Simultaneously, open your palm and make a gesture. If the dog stops moving and stays in its position, give it a treat. Repeat for further reinforcement.