Training Your Dog to Lay Down on Command

Training your dog to obey commands is an important part of pet ownership . When your dog is properly trained, it is much easier for you to communicate with him and this enhances your relationship. In addition to making him mind you, it may even help save your pet from harm or danger.

Dogs want your praise, so using positive reinforcement when training your dog or puppy is the best approach. Hitting or yelling rarely works, and besides who wants to hit or yell at their dog anyway?

The “down” or “lay down” command is one of the basic commands and should be one of the first things you teach your dog once he learns to sit on command.  It is not hard to train a dog to obey commands and once you have done one command, it gets even easier as the process is basically the same for each.  Here’s some steps you can use when training your dog to lay down on command:

1. Get the dog to sit (you should have already trained him in this command)

2. Firmly give the “down” command while gently forcing his legs out in front (this will cause him to lay down).

3. Give your dog praise. Show him you are really happy with your voice and body language.

4. At first the dog will get right back up, but as time goes on you can lengthen the time the dog stays in the down position by waiting to give him praise.

5. Repeat three to five times at each session. Repetition is important but you don’t want to do too much at one time. If you really want to drill it in, you can have several sessions spaced out throughout the day.

There’s more rewards than meets the eye with training your dog.  For one the dog gets used to listening to his name. He also will get used to doing things on your command.  All in all, training strengthens your positions – you as leader and helps the dog feel secure. Spend a couple of minutes each day training your dog to lay down.  This will help cement your friendship.

Article written by Lee Dobbins
About The Author: Get more dog training tips and find out which
dogs are easier to train at http://www.train-the-dog.com

Important Disclaimer: The stories and information on this site are not meant to diagnose or prescribe for you. If you or your pet has a medical problem, you should consult your medical doctor or veterinarian. The ideas and information on this site have not been endorsed or approved by the FDA.  In no event shall the owners of this website be liable for any damages whatsoever resulting from any action arising in connection with the use of this information or its publication, including any action for infringement of copyright or defamation. The decision to use, or not to use, any information is the sole responsibility of the reader. Opinions expressed here are those of individual contributors. This web site does not verify or endorse the claims of contributing writers.

The statements above have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.  This product(s) is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.