Dog Training Tips – Lying Down

Once your dog has learned to sit and stay, the next step, before progressing to rolling over on to his side, is to teach him to lie down on command. Instant reward is essential when teaching down, because a dog is at his most defenseless in a lying position. A reward will take his mind off that feeling and teach him that lying on command is both pleasant and non-threatening. Be patient: if you get annoyed your dog will sense it, and you are unlikely to achieve your goal.

Using Food Treats Wisely

A key element that forms the base for all training is food control; the method used to food-train puppies is exactly the same for adult dogs. However, dogs should not be rewarded with food treats forever, or they will become fat. Use treats as part of the daily food ration, not in addition to it. Once your dog understands what you want, give food rewards only intermittently. At other times, give lavish verbal and physical praise, which your dog will appreciate just as much.

1. With your dog in the sit position, get him to focus his attention on a
treat in your hand.

2. Put the treat under his nose, then slowly move it down to the floor or between his front paws. He will sink to the floor in his effort to get the treat. As soon as he does, say ‘down’ and reward him with the treat and praise. Practice this a couple of times and you will find that your dog soon learns to lie down on command in anticipation of a reward.

 

3. If all goes well, try extending the lie down into a stay. As you step away from the lying dog, say ’stay’ (with a hand signal as shown, if necessary), wait a couple of seconds, then go back to him and reward him lavishly. Gradually extend the distance between you and your dog as you command the stay. You will be surprised at how quickly he learn