How to Teach Your Hunting Dog to Lay Down

Training a dog is not always an easy task. But with perseverance, it is possible to get your hunting dog to obey and follow directions. Some hunting dogs are stubborn and used to just going after the prey, so when it comes to teaching them to stay calm and lie down, you might have numerous lessons on your hands.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Begin by practicing the sit down command with your pet. Most dogs can achieve this command and learn it quickly. Keep your hand on its head as the dog practices sitting, so your pet knows that it is performing the right action to your verbal command.

2. Use the "down" command as you kneel down with your hunting dog. Then tug your pet gently by the leash until it lays down on the ground. Most dogs will find this first step easy to manage.

3. Give your hunting dog lots of praise when your pet lies down. You can give treats or toys or just general petting. When you give your dog this treat, you convey the message that your dog is doing what its master says, and your dog is doing something good.

4. Work on practicing the leash tug over and over again, and your dog will eventually understand what your request. Associate the word "down" with your hand moving to the ground.

5. Get your dog to repeat the sit down command many times. Eventually you will find that your hunting dog will sit down on its own when you mention the command "down" and use your hand movement.