Top 10 Basic Commands Every Dog Should Know

Hey there, fellow dog lovers! 🐾 We're all about helping you and your furry friend live your best lives together. Today, we're diving into the top 10 basic commands every dog should know. Trust us, mastering these commands will make your life easier and your pup's life a whole lot more fun. So, let's get started!

1. Sit

Why it's important: Imagine this – you're trying to snap a cute pic of your pup, but they just won't sit still. Enter the "Sit" command! It's the foundation of good behavior and helps keep your dog calm and focused.

How to teach it: Grab a treat and hold it close to your dog's nose. Slowly move your hand up, and as their head follows, their bottom will naturally lower. Once they're sitting, say "Sit" and reward them with the treat. Voilà! Your dog is now Instagram-ready.

2. Stay

Why it's important: Picture this – you're at the park, and you need your dog to stay put while you take care of something. "Stay" is your go-to command for keeping them in place.

How to teach it: Start with your dog in a "Sit." Hold your hand up like a stop sign and say "Stay." Take a few steps back. If they stay, give them a treat and lots of praise. Gradually increase the distance. Easy peasy!

3. Come

Why it's important: Start with your dog in a "Sit." Hold your hand up like a stop sign and say "Stay." Take a few steps back. If they stay, give them a treat and lots of praise. Gradually increase the distance. Easy peasy!

How to teach it: Put a leash and collar on your dog. Say "Come" while gently pulling on the leash. When they reach you, reward them with affection and a treat.

4. Down

Why it's important: "Down" is a useful command for keeping your dog calm and controlled, particularly in situations where they might be overly excited or anxious.

How to teach it: With a treat in your hand, let your dog sniff it. Move your hand to the floor, and when they follow, say "Down." Reward them when they're lying down. Now you’ve got a relaxed and happy doggo!

5. Heel

Why it's important: Ever been on a walk where your dog is pulling you every which way? "Heel" keeps your pup walking nicely by your side, making your strolls together much more enjoyable.

How to teach it: Start walking with your dog on a leash, and say "Heel" to keep them beside you. Reward them for staying close with treats and praise. Soon, you'll both be walking in perfect harmony.

6. Leave It

Why it's important: Dogs are curious creatures, and sometimes they get into things they shouldn't. "Leave It" is essential for keeping them safe from dangerous or undesirable items.

How to teach it: Show your dog a treat, say "Leave It," and close your hand. When they stop trying to get it, reward them with a different treat. Now you’ve got a dog who knows what’s off-limits!

7. Drop It

Why it's important: Ever caught your dog with something they shouldn't have? The "Drop It" command helps you get that item out of their mouth without a fuss.

How to teach it: Offer your dog a treat while they're holding a toy. Say "Drop It" and give them the treat when they release the toy. Crisis averted!

8. Wait

Why it's important: The "Wait" command is great for those moments when you need your dog to pause, like before crossing the street or entering the house.

How to teach it: Use "Wait" at doorways or curbs. Say "Wait" and block their movement with your body. Reward them when they wait calmly. Now you’ve got a dog who knows how to take a breather.

9. Off

Why it's important: Got a dog who loves jumping on people or furniture? "Off" is your go-to command to keep them grounded – literally.

How to teach it: Say "Off" and gently guide your dog off the furniture or away from people. Reward them when they follow the command. Now everyone can enjoy your pup's company without being pounced on.

10. No

Why it's important: "No" is a universal command to stop unwanted behavior immediately. It's like the pause button for dogs.

How to teach it: Use a firm voice when saying "No" during inappropriate behavior. Redirect their attention to a positive activity and reward them. Now you’ve got a dog who knows when to stop.