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"Top 10 Essential Behaviours Every Dog Should Know":

Writer's picture: The PATS TeamThe PATS Team

Introduction

Dogs thrive on clear communication and structure, making basic behaviours (skills) essential for their safety, overall behaviour, and well-being. These behaviours not only ensure your dog listens in various situations but they also strengthen your bond with them. So that's why we believe that there are 10 behaviours every dog should know.


Here’s a step-by-step guide to teaching the top 10 behaviours every dog should know.

1. Sit

Why It’s Important: A foundational behaviour that helps calm your dog and focus their attention.

How to Teach It:

  1. Hold a treat close to your dog’s nose.

  2. Slowly move the treat upward, so their head follows the treat and their bottom naturally lowers to the ground.

  3. As soon as they sit, say “Yes” and give them the treat.

  4. Practice in short, frequent sessions.

    lady giving dog a treat for sitting
    Sit

2. Stay

Why It’s Important: Helps keep your dog safe and in place when needed.

How to Teach It:

  1. Ask your dog to “Sit.”

  2. Open your palm in front of their face and say “Stay.”

  3. Count 1 second, say "Yes" and reinforce the behaviour.

  4. Gradually increase the duration of marking the behaviour by one second at a time.

  5. Always complete 10 successful repetitions before advancing to the next criterion. If all 10 are not successful, you should continue at the current level.

  6. Always release them with a word like “Okay” when done.


3. Come (Recall)

Why It’s Important: Essential for safety, especially in off-leash situations.

How to Teach It:

  1. Use a leash or a long line in a controlled area.

  2. Say your dog’s name, followed by “Come,” in an upbeat tone.

  3. Reinforce them with treats and praise when they reach you.

  4. Gradually increase distractions and distance as they improve.


    Happy dog running back to owner through the snow
    Come when called

4. Down (Lie Down)

Why It’s Important: Promotes calm behavior and can be used in various settings.

How to Teach It:

  1. Start with your dog in a “Sit” position.

  2. Hold a treat near their nose, then move it downward to the ground.

  3. Once their body follows the treat, say “Yes” and reinforce them.

  4. Practice patience, as some dogs may take time to understand.


    A dalmatian dog in a down position and owner giving a treat.
    The 'Down"

5. Leave It

Why It’s Important: Prevents your dog from picking up harmful or unwanted objects.

How to Teach It:

  1. Place a treat in your closed hand and show it to your dog.

  2. When they sniff or paw at your hand, softly say “Leave It.”

  3. Once they stop and pull back, reinforce them with a different treat from your other hand.

  4. Gradually introduce objects on the floor and practice.


    Dog going to take food off the floor
    A Leave could save your dog from being poisoned

6. Drop It

Why It’s Important: Ensures your dog releases objects, especially dangerous ones.

How to Teach It:

  1. Offer your dog a toy they enjoy.

  2. Hold a treat near their nose and say “Drop It.”

  3. When they release the toy, reinforce them immediately.

  4. Repeat until they respond consistently.


7. Heel

Why It’s Important: Encourages polite walking without pulling on the leash.

How to Teach It:

  1. With your dog on a leash, hold a treat by your side.

  2. Start walking, keeping the treat close to your leg.

  3. Say “Heel” and reinforce them when they walk beside you.

  4. Gradually phase out the treat and practice regularly.

    Little boy running with this dog
    If this dog was a puller, the little boy wouldn't be able to do this.

8. Wait

Why It’s Important: Teaches your dog to pause before proceeding, ensuring safety.

How to Teach It:

  1. Use “Wait” at thresholds (e.g., before crossing a door or road).

  2. Hold your hand up like a stop signal and say “Wait.”

  3. Reinforce them when they pause.

  4. Release them with “Okay” and practice in various situations.


9. Watch Me (Focus)

Why It’s Important: Ensures your dog pays attention to you, especially in distracting environments.

How to Teach It:

  1. Hold a treat near your face and say “Watch Me.”

  2. Reinforce your dog as soon as they make eye contact.

  3. Gradually increase the duration of eye contact before rewarding.


    Dog looking up at his handler
    Dog is connected to his handler - a nice 'watch' or 'focus'

10. Off

Why It’s Important: Prevents jumping on people, furniture, or counters.

How to Teach It:

  1. Redirect them to a “Sit” or “Down” cue and reinforce calm behaviour.

  2. Be consistent and avoid reinforcing jumping with attention.

  3. You may like to practice with your dog on a leash to help encourage the correct behaviour.


Tips for Success

  • Consistency is Key: Use the same cues every time.

  • Keep Sessions Short: Aim for 5–10 minutes per session to maintain focus.

  • Use Positive Reinforcement: Reinforce desired behaviours with treats, praise, or play.

  • Practice Regularly: Reinforce cues in different environments and with distractions.


Conclusion

Teaching these 10 behaviours is a fantastic way to ensure your dog is well-behaved, safe, and a joy to be around. Remember, patience and consistency go a long way in achieving success. Start small, celebrate progress, and enjoy the journey of building a stronger bond with your furry friend!


If you require additional help in teaching your dog these foundations then 👉 check out my Online Beginners Course


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COAPE Centre of Applied Pet Ethology

Why choose us

As an industry expert with extensive experience in pet care and behaviour, I am here to provide you with personalised guidance to better understand your pet’s unique needs.

Whether you’re dealing with common challenges or more complex behavioural issues, I can offer practical solutions and actionable advice tailored to your situation.

My goal is to help you build a stronger bond with your pet while ensuring their well-being and happiness.

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Edgewater, 6027. W.A

 

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