Teach Your Dog to Sit

Training your dog to sit can be beneficial for both you and your dog. If they are taught to listen when you tell them to sit it could keep them out of harm’s way and can also help you get them settled down if they are being overactive toward kids or other people that may be around. 

It is best to start training a dog when they are a puppy because they are still young and willing to learn. That being said, a dog of any age can be taught to sit so don’t think it is too late if you have an older dog. 

Learning to sit is one of the easiest commands a dog can learn, “Howl” will you do that you ask?

Hold tight, and we will walk you through the basics of this learning curve!

Step 1: Giving Praise 

The first step in teaching your pup anything is to have a treat, a clicker, or some form of paw-sitive reinforcement that they will remember. 

With a treat, you start by holding it up to their nose to grab their attention. Once you have that, you are ready for the next step. 

Step 2: Getting Them to Sit 

Next, you’re going to slowly raise the treat above your dog’s head causing them to lean back. Make sure that you are saying “sit” during this process. Once they start to lean back their rear end will eventually hit the ground one way or another. 

Step 3: Rewarding Them 

As soon as you see their butt on the ground immediately give them the treat or click the clicker if you’re using this method, pat them on the head, and tell them “Good boy/girl.” This tells the dog that they performed the action that you were asking them to. 

Step 4: Final Step 

The last step is simple, you just repeat steps 1 through 3 and eventually, your pup will catch on! 

Though, you may feel inclined to keep training your dog in one session until they are reacting like a pro, remember you must work in their best interest as well. 

Your dog may have a short attention span and feel bored or distracted easily. Try not to let this discourage you, instead, give them some time and come back to the training later. 

Final Ruffs

At the end of the day, your pooch is smarter than you realize and may pick up on commands quickly. Following these 4 steps to teach your dog to sit and having patience will ensure that you are set up for success. 

Be sure not to punish your dog when they are still learning as these sessions will be a great way to build a foundation of trust and bonding between the two of you. Teaching them to sit is a basic essential command to help them develop good manners. 

Lastly, but certainly not least, don’t forget to have fun! Incorporating the training in a playful way can increase the attention span of your dog, help them learn quicker, and create a fun time for both of you!