8 tips to train a dog to sit

Teaching your new puppy to sit is undoubtedly one of the most important things you can do and you should begin this rewarding task as soon as you bring him to his new home. The steps below will show you exactly how to train a dog to sit.

1. This first step is deceptively easy. All you have to do is say the word "sit" when you see your puppy sitting down on it's own initiative. This way, the puppy understands that the word you are trying to make him learn, relate to his current actions. You can use this basic tip in all other forms of training.

2. Find the dog a delectable treat and place one in your hand. The puppy should be able to swallow the treat quickly and easily so be sure it is small.

3. Get down to your puppies level. You will appear less threatening to the dog if you are on his level. More importantly, you can reward him faster if you're sitting on the floor.

4. Bring the treat over your puppy's head gradually. Remember that your dog has a keen sense of smell and his nose will naturally follow the path of the treat. As the treat is moving from the front of him to the back, he can do one of two things to keep following it. He will either back up while still on his feet or he'll sit down. Sitting down is easier and this is what most dogs will do.

5. As he sits, immediately say "sit" and reward him with a treat. This is key in all training. The reward has to be given at the same moment the dog responds correctly.

6. More than a treat, your dog looks for your approval so you should also reward him with that. Your approval for a job well done should be apparent in both the tone of your voice, and body language.

7. This is something you could continue to practice 3-5 times a day. Don't over do it though, as moderation is important, unless you are able to make these steps as fun for the dog as they are for you.

8. Now try the same thing but standing up. See if you can get the dog to sit without the aid of a treat. When he does, heap on the praise. Be sure that you never punish him if he does not sit, but wait patiently for him to sit and then praise him.

You need to keep practicing this so that your dog your dog will learn to sit when you tell him to no matter what's happening around him. This is something you'll have to keep working at for the rest of his life. He will constantly be faced with new situations, strange people, other dogs, and different environments, and you can use each new experience as a way to challenge him to reach greater heights.

Learning how to train a dog to sit on command is not that difficult. Start when your dog is a puppy and, not only will you teach it to sit, but you will find that they love to do other tricks with you as well. By training your dog as a puppy, you will get the dog used to hearing its own name, acting on your command, and being an active participant for other activities. This will get your dog use to having you in charge and make the dog more secure in being part of your family!