Obedience Training for Dogs: 5 Easy Cues to Master

5 Simple Cues Every Dog Should Learn (and How to Teach Them)

Training your dog isn’t just about good manners—it builds trust and communication. These five cues are practical, easy to master, and lay the foundation for more advanced skills.

1. Sit
Why it matters: Instantly redirects hyper behavior and encourages calmness.
How to teach:

• Read moreUnderstanding the Intricacies of a Level 3 Dog

  Hold a treat near your dog’s nose, then slowly lift it upward.

• As their head follows the treat, their butt will naturally lower.

• Say “Sit” the moment they hit the ground, then reward.
  Pro tip: Practice before meals when your dog is motivated by food.

2. Down
Why it matters: Helps manage excitement and is useful for vet visits or crowded areas.
How to teach:

• Start with your dog in a “sit.”

• Lower a treat to the floor between their paws, saying “Down” as they stretch toward it.

• Reward only when their elbows touch the ground.
  Watch for: Some dogs resist lying down—stay patient and avoid pushing their shoulders.

3. Stay
Why it matters: Keeps your dog safe in risky situations (e.g., open doors).
How to teach:

• Ask your dog to “Sit” or “Down.”

• Hold your palm out like a stop sign, say “Stay,” then take ONE step back.

• Immediately return, reward, and release with “Okay!”
  Build gradually: Increase distance/duration over weeks—never rush this skill.

4. Come
Why it matters: A reliable recall could save your dog’s life.
How to teach:

• Leash your dog indoors. Say “Come” cheerfully while gently pulling the leash toward you.

• When they move your way, shower them with treats/praise.
  Game-changer: Never call to scold—make coming to you the best part of their day.

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5. Leave It
Why it matters: Prevents swallowing dangerous items during walks.
How to teach:

• Show a treat in your closed hand. Let your dog sniff/lick it.

• When they stop trying, say “Leave it” and reward with a DIFFERENT treat from your other hand.
  Level up: Practice with low-value items on the floor, covering them with your foot if needed.

 Training Rules Most Owners Forget

1. Keep sessions short: 5-10 minutes, 2-3x daily. Dogs learn better in bursts.

2. Phase out treats slowly: Once they nail the cue 90% of the time, reward randomly.

3. Use real-life rewards: After “Sit,” reward by opening the door for a walk—not just with food.

Troubleshooting FAQ
“My dog listens at home but ignores me outside!”
→ Practice in distracting areas ON LEASH first. A 15-foot training leash works great for parks.

“He knows ‘Down’ but won’t do it unless I have treats!”
→ Hide treats in your palm sometimes and reward from a pouch other times. Keep them guessing.

Consistency beats talent—stick with it, and you’ll see results. What cue are you working on first?