Having a dog join the family can bring loved ones closer than ever before. Though bringing a new pet into the home is exciting, it also comes with new challenges. In a new environment, dogs are unaware of house boundaries. Sneaking food off the counter, barking, running off and getting into dangerous items can all be new obstacles to face. Obedience training will not only teach your puppy to behave better, it will keep them safe. It is never too late for dogs to learn, but the earlier they learn, the better.

According to the American Kennel Society, dog training is based on the foundational concepts of correction and reward. Correction is teaching your dog the difference between good and bad behavior. When correcting your dog or puppy, avoid punishment or spanking. Saying a firm “No,” to your puppy will do the trick.

Rewards are treats given to the puppy for doing what you asked. These items can be anything your dog loves, like a toy or a favorite food. When your dog behaves, say, “Good dog,” then shower it with praise and rewards. To begin training, every dog should be able to perform three basic commands.

1. Sit

Learning this command is the easiest and most important in dog training. Sit is the foundation for most other commands.

Steps:

1. Hold a reward treat in your hand and kneel in front of your dog.
2. Put the treat to your pet’s nose.
3. Lift your hand upward.
4. Tell your dog to sit.
5. If your dog lifts its head to bite the food, use your other hand to guide his backside down into a sitting position.
6. As it sits down, say, “Sit.”
7. When your pet follows the command, praise it.
8. Repeat daily.

2. Heel

Heel teaches your dog to walk next to you, instead of in front. Its head is even with your knee. This command will teach your dog how to walk properly on a leash.

Steps:

1. Collar and leash your dog.
2. Place your dog in a sitting position.
3. Hold its leash in your left hand.
4. Put the squeaky toy in your right one above the animal’s head.
5. Start walking with the toy in front while saying the “Heel” command.
6. Get your pet’s attention by squeaking the toy.
7. If it gets distracted or pulls in front, stop walking immediately.
8. When it pays attention again, praise your pet and give them the toy.
9. Once your dog gives you 30 seconds of attention, begin walking again.
10. Increase times before you reward your pet.
11. Repeat daily.

3. The “Stay” Command

This command will teach your dog self-control and to stay in an allowed space.

Steps:

1. Command your pet to sit.
2. Open your palm and put it in front of you.
3. Say, “Stay.”
4. Step backward.
5. If your dog stays put, give him the reward and praise.
6. Increase the number of steps you take each time.
7. Always reward your dog for staying, even if only for a short time.
8. Repeat daily.

Obedience training is important for dogs to not only behave properly, but to also maintain their own safety. Training your pup doesn’t have to be strenuous, as these commands are simple to learn. A well-behaved dog can better react to new environments, such as Doggie Styles, with much less stress than other pets. Keep your home and your dog happy and healthy with obedience sessions daily!