What commands should a puppy learn?

Essential Commands for Puppy Training

Training your puppy to follow basic commands is crucial for their safety and to foster good behavior. Here are some essential commands every puppy should learn:

1. **Sit**: This is often the first command puppies learn. It helps with impulse control and is a good starting point for further training. To teach 'sit', hold a treat close to your puppy's nose, then move your hand up. As their head goes up, their bottom will lower. Once they are in a sitting position, say 'sit', give them the treat, and praise them.

2. **Stay**: This command keeps your puppy in one place. Start by having them sit, then open your palm in front of you and say 'stay'. Take a few steps back. If they stay, return and reward them. Gradually increase the distance and duration.

3. **Come**: This command is vital for safety. Start by calling your puppy in a happy tone while gently pulling on a leash. When they come to you, reward them with treats and praise. Practice in a safe, enclosed area before moving to more distracting environments.

4. **Down**: Teaching your puppy to lie down can help with calmness and control. Start with them in a sitting position, then hold a treat in your hand and move it to the ground. As they follow it down, say 'down' and reward them once they are lying down.

5. **Leave it**: This command teaches your puppy to ignore distractions or things they shouldn't have. Hold a treat in your hand and let them sniff it. When they try to grab it, close your hand and say 'leave it'. Once they back off, reward them with a different treat.

6. **Heel**: This command teaches your puppy to walk nicely on a leash. Start walking with your puppy beside you and use a treat to encourage them to stay close. If they pull ahead, stop walking and call them back to your side.

7. **No**: This command helps to correct unwanted behaviors. Use a firm but calm voice to say 'no' when your puppy does something undesirable, and redirect them to a more appropriate behavior, rewarding them when they comply.

Start training in short sessions of about 5-10 minutes, and always end on a positive note. Consistency, patience, and positive reinforcement are key to successful training. Happy training!

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Topics covered in this question:

Puppy Training Obedience Training Dog Commands