How to Teach Your Rottweiler to Lay Down

Considered temperamental and prone to aggression, rottweilers need as much obedience training as possible. Teach the lay down command to increase the amount of control you exercise over the dog and to easily transport her. Though it is preferable to begin teaching the lay down command at the puppy stage, rottweilers learn successfully at any age.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Find a quiet place inside or outside. Plan to train for 10 minutes per day.

2. Prepare food treats in a handy container. Relax the dog and focus his attention on you by standing next to him and gazing at him.

3. Begin with the dog in the sitting position. Attach the leash loosely to the collar to maintain some control.

4. Take a food treat in your hand. Hold it over the dog's head. When the dog focuses on the treat for several seconds, move it down between the dog's front legs and hold it there until the dog lowers her head and upper body to lie down. Praise the dog and give her the treat.

5. Repeat step 4 several times. Once the dog lowers his head and upper body automatically, progress to having him lower his entire body. Do this by moving the treat down to the ground, alongside the dog and towards his back.

6. Praise the dog and offer the treat when her entire body rests completely on the ground. Reinforce the down and backward motion by gently pulling on her leash if her upper body touches the ground but her lower body remains on her haunches.