Friday, January 9, 2009

Sit Up, Heel & Lie Down - Intermediate Dog Training

By Joel Silverman

Assuming that your little guy is familiar with the Sit command, he is now ready to move forward to the Lie Down command. This Intermediate Training behavior is simple to implement for most dogs and should be easily integrated into his routine.

First, command your little pal to Sit. Take his favorite treat and move it a bit closer to the ground prior to allowing him to take it. Don't allow movement from the Sit position. After he has this process learned, move the treat a bit farther away but still keeping it on the ground. Uh Oh! Now, he must lie down in order to reach this little goody. When he does this, simply say, "Lie Down." Be consistent and eventually you will be able to fade out the treat completely. Patience is a must -- he may try to get up but simply keep him in the Sit position until he has mastered the entire technique.

Teaching the Heel command is really important for your little pal. You want him to have good manners, and lunging at other people or pets is just not good behavior. You first teach your dog not to pull on the leash. Start off in a small area, making small circles and walking very slowly. This will cause him to think about going slow and also help him understand whether you are going left or right. Occasionally, however, give him a little room to explore -- have you ever met a dog who didn't like to sniff every thing in sight?

The Sit Up command can be a lot of fun to implement. Your dog must be very familiar with the Sit behavior as you take a piece of food or treat and hold it over his head. He must be able to reach it at this point. Continue this movement, holding the treat higher each time, until he is forced to reach for the food but can still remain seated.

Now, you must hold the treat higher yet. Uh oh, he won't be able to take it unless he raises his front paws from the ground. At this point, use the verbal cue, "Sit Up" and immediately reward him. Very shortly, he will understand what is going on and you may fade out the treat gradually, use only your hand and give the cue "Sit Up."

Your dog is going to eventually appreciate learning the Sit Up, Lie Down and Heel commands in the Intermediate Behaviors Training. As you are consistent, patient and loving with your best friend, he will do his utmost to earn your approval and please you.

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