How to Teach a Dog to Sit

It's the first step in training and the command you'll use the most. Here's how to quickly and easily train your dog to sit.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Dog treats
• Time

1. Let the dog smell the treats in your hand, even lick them. Once they know you have treats, they will be much more inclined to listen.

2. While holding your hand in front of the dog's nose, slowly lift the treat up and back over the top of the dog's head. With your other hand, gently push his tail end to the floor, repeating "Sit! Sit!"

3. As soon as your dog's butt hits the floor, reward him with the treat. Say things like "Sit! Good boy! Sit!" As long as your dog is in the sitting position, repeat the word over and over (regardless of how dumb you feel).

4. Repeat this move over and over until your dog associates the treat with his tail on the floor. Once he has the move down, start rewarding him less with treats and more with verbal praise.

Tips & Warnings

• You can use food instead of treats. For breeds who can easily put on weight, this is probably the best idea.