How-To Train your Dog to Sit

Training your canine can be a difficult task if you've never received any formal training or attended any animal behavior classes.  But do not fret, new doggy parent(s)!  Start with the simple tricks first to establish a foundation for you and your new best friend.  Your main goal is to practice associating a word with an action.  You can use "food lures" (doggy treats) to help this process.  It is recommended to repeat this process 2-3 times a day for about 5-10 minutes.  Here are the steps to teach your dog how to sit:


STEP 1

Start petting your dog in constant strokes along his back while saying his name (i.e. good boy, good [name]).

STEP 2

While petting your dog, add in strokes to places that aren't 'normal' such as his legs/paws/tail/ears.  This familiarity in strokes will allow your pet to become accustomed to this type of touch when he gets his nails cut or his ears cleaned (or anything else).

STEP 3

To grab your dog's attention, let him know you have a treat and bring it close to his nose.

STEP 4

Bring the treat behind his ears so that your dog will sit. 

STEP 5

Once he/she does, say the name of your dog and the word "sit" immediately after.

STEP 6
 
Praise him for sitting and give him the treat.

STEP 7

Repeat these steps several times.