Teaching basic dog training commands is one of the best things you can do for your dog. Good manners make daily life easier, keep your dog safe and strengthen your bond. These five commands, sit, down, stay, come and leave it, form the foundation for almost everything else.
Before You Begin
A few simple rules make training much more effective:
- Use rewards. Small, tasty treats, praise or play all work. Reward-based training builds trust and keeps learning fun.
- Keep sessions short. Five to ten minutes, a few times a day, works better than one long session.
- Start somewhere quiet. Add distractions gradually as your dog improves.
- Be consistent. Everyone in the household should use the same words and hand signals.
1. Sit
Hold a treat near your dog’s nose, then slowly move it up and back over the head. As your dog’s nose follows, their bottom lowers. The moment it touches the floor, say “yes” and give the treat. Add the word “sit” once your dog does it reliably.
2. Down
Start from a sit. Hold a treat near the nose and slowly lower it to the floor between the front paws. When your dog lies down, reward right away. If your dog struggles, reward small steps in the right direction. Practice on a soft surface.
3. Stay
Ask your dog to sit, show an open palm and say “stay.” Wait one or two seconds, then reward and release with a word like “okay.” Slowly increase the time, then the distance. Always return to your dog to reward, and release them before they break the stay on their own.
4. Come
A reliable recall can save your dog’s life. Start indoors with a short distance. Say your dog’s name and “come” in a happy voice, then reward generously when they reach you. Never call your dog to scold them, because that teaches them that coming is unpleasant. Practice in a safely fenced area before trying it in open spaces.
5. Leave It
Hold a treat in a closed fist and let your dog sniff it. The moment your dog backs away or looks at you, say “yes” and give a different treat from your other hand. Gradually move to treats on the floor under your hand. This command helps keep your dog safe around dropped food, trash and other hazards.
Common Training Mistakes
- Repeating the command again and again instead of helping your dog succeed
- Training when you or your dog are tired or frustrated
- Skipping rewards too soon
- Using punishment, which can create fear and slow learning
What to Teach Next
Once your dog knows these basics, try polite leash walking. Our guide on how to stop dog pulling on leash builds on these skills. You can also teach your puppy to settle in a crate with our crate training guide, and keep your dog’s mind busy with indoor activities for dogs.
Frequently Asked Questions
How old should a puppy be to start training?
You can start gentle training as soon as your puppy comes home, usually around eight weeks. Keep sessions very short and fun. See our new puppy checklist.
How long does it take to teach basic commands?
Many dogs learn the basics in a few weeks, but reliability around distractions takes longer. Practice a little every day.
Can older dogs learn new commands?
Yes. Older dogs can learn with patience and rewards. Keep sessions short and gentle on their joints.
When should I get help from a trainer?
If you are struggling, or your dog shows fear, aggression or anxiety, contact a qualified, reward-based trainer. Sudden behavior changes can also be a sign of a health problem, so check with your vet.
Related Reading
- Stop Dog Pulling on Leash: 7 Training Tips That Work
- How to Crate Train a Puppy: Step-by-Step Guide
- Indoor Activities for Dogs: 10 Fun Ways to Beat Boredom
For more training resources, visit the American Kennel Club.