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Training your dog to sit will ensure they are welcome almost everywhere. Even dog lovers are usually not impressed with muddy paw prints on the front of their nice clean shirt. The sit command is a dog training fundamental. It is useful in many situations and sets the foundation for further education.

PUPPIES

Puppies up to twelve weeks old can be taught the sit command at the same time they are bonding with you. Feeding times are the highlight of their day and you can make use of their focused attention at these times to start their training. Puppies are usually fed three times a day. For one of these meals cut fresh meat into cubes.

Give your pup a single piece of meat. As he licks the juice from your fingers he will be taking in your scent and associating your smell with one of his favorite things; food. Next take another piece of meat and lift it just above your pup's head. He will lift is head to try to reach the meat.

Move the meat back slightly and quietly command him to "Sit." As his head tilts back to reach the meat he will lower his rear end to the ground to keep his balance. Praise him and give him the meat as soon as he is sitting.

If he steps back rather than sitting gently push his rear end down and towards you with your free hand. He will not resist as his full attention will be on the meat. Praise him and give him the meat as soon as he sits.

Do this exercise about six times at one feeding time each day. Occasionally do it at other times of the day replacing the food reward with praise alone.

The food reward should be phased out over a period of three weeks. To do this, use the meat two out of three times for a few days, then one out of three times, and then less frequently until gradually only physical and verbal praise remain.

Training older puppies and dogs this way is not recommended unless you are willing to carry a pocket full of treats with you wherever you go.

ADULT DOGS

Teaching an adult dog to sit should be started on a leash. Prepare yourself by putting the leash in your right hand with your dog standing on your left side. Loop the leash in your right hand so you are holding it close to the clip end.

Place your left hand on the hindquarters of your dog with your palm flat against their back and your fingers spread. This way your thumb, fingers and palm all have contact with his body and give you the best control.

Give him the command "Sit," pull the leash vertically above his head and at the same time push down and slightly forward with your left hand. As soon as he responds let go of the clip end of the leash releasing the pressure and use your left hand to praise him.

It is important to always watch what your right hand is doing. If you pull backwards and up at the same time as you push down and forward on his hindquarters your dog will feel he is going to be pulled over backward and will resist. If you pull forward and up your dog will be more likely to move forward rather than sit when you push with your left hand.

Training your dog to sit requires coordination of both your hands simultaneously. It is not difficult but does require concentration. If your timing is not precise you will confuse your dog. Always remember to praise your dog when he sits. If he doesn't sit, persist quietly and calmly until he does.

Learn more about this author, Marie Hurley.
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