Basic Dog Training: 5 Essential Commands Every Dog Should Know

Training your dog isn't just about tricks—it's about communication, safety, and building a stronger bond. These five essential commands can make everyday life easier and even save your dog's life in dangerous situations.

Why Training Matters

A well-trained dog is:

• Safer — Responds to commands in dangerous situations
• Calmer — Understands expectations and boundaries
• Happier — Mental stimulation prevents boredom
• More welcome — Can go more places with you

Before You Start

The Golden Rules

1. Keep sessions short — 5-10 minutes max
2. End on a positive note — Always finish with success
3. Be consistent — Same word, same gesture, every time
4. Use high-value treats — Small, soft, smelly treats work best
5. Practice patience — Every dog learns at their own pace

Command 1: Sit

The foundation of all training. Master this first.

How to teach it:

1. Hold a treat close to your dog's nose
2. Move your hand up and back over their head
3. Their bottom will naturally lower as they look up
4. The moment they sit, say "Sit" and give the treat
5. Repeat 5-10 times per session

Pro tip: Don't push their bottom down. Let them figure it out—it sticks better.

Command 2: Stay

Essential for safety and impulse control.

How to teach it:

1. Ask your dog to sit
2. Open your palm toward them and say "Stay"
3. Take one step back
4. If they stay, return and reward immediately
5. Gradually increase distance and duration

Start small: Even 2 seconds is a win at first. Build up slowly.

Command 3: Come (Recall)

The most important command for safety. A reliable recall can save your dog's life.

How to teach it:

1. Start in a quiet, enclosed area
2. Get their attention and move backward
3. Say "Come!" in an excited voice
4. When they reach you, reward generously
5. Never call them for something unpleasant

Critical rule: NEVER punish a dog who comes to you, even if they took forever. Coming to you should always be positive.

Command 4: Down

Helps with calmness and settling in various situations.

How to teach it:

1. Start with your dog in a sit
2. Hold a treat to their nose, then slowly lower it to the ground
3. Move the treat along the floor away from them
4. Their body will follow into a down position
5. Say "Down" and reward the moment they're fully down

Patience required: This one takes longer for most dogs. That's normal.

Command 5: Leave It

Prevents your dog from picking up dangerous items, food, or chasing things they shouldn't.

How to teach it:

1. Hold a treat in your closed fist
2. Let your dog sniff and paw at it
3. When they back away or look at you, say "Leave it"
4. Reward with a DIFFERENT treat from your other hand
5. Never give them the "forbidden" treat

Real-world practice: Once mastered indoors, practice with items on the ground during walks.

Training Timeline

Every dog is different, but here's a general guide:

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Repeating commands — Say it once. Repeating teaches them to ignore you.
• Training when frustrated — Dogs sense your mood. Take a break if needed.
• Inconsistent rewards — In the beginning, reward every success.
• Moving too fast — Master each step before adding difficulty.
• Skipping practice — Short daily sessions beat long weekly ones.

When to Get Help

Consider a professional trainer if:

• Your dog shows aggression
• Training isn't progressing after 4-6 weeks
• You're dealing with severe fear or anxiety
• You want to tackle advanced behaviors

Make It Fun

Training should be enjoyable for both of you. If you're not having fun, your dog isn't either. Celebrate small wins and remember—your dog wants to please you. With patience and consistency, these five commands will become second nature.

Your future self will thank you every time your dog sits politely for guests, comes running when called, or leaves that suspicious thing on the sidewalk alone! 🐕

Sources

• American Kennel Club. "How to Teach Your Dog Basic Commands"
• ASPCA. "Dog Training Tips"
• American Veterinary Medical Association. "Positive Reinforcement Training"
• VCA Animal Hospitals. "Training Dogs - Teaching Dogs to Sit"