WHY TEACH YOUR DOG TO SIT
Aside from giving your dog a way to say “Please,” Sit is a great alternative for inappropriate behaviors like jumping up or barging out doors. When you teach your dog to sit using peaceful force free methods you also build trust and rapport. Sit can also indicate consent or become a way for your dog to communicate discomfort with something happening around them. Sit is also a transitory behavior between standing and lying down.
HOW TO TEACH YOUR DOG TO SIT
Step 1. Show it. Lure your dog into a sit by putting the treat up to their nose and slowly moving the treat up and backwards over their head. Keep the treat lure close to your dog’s nose to keep them from backing away. —if you move your hand up too quickly or too far away from her mouth, she may give up and lose interest.
Step 2. Pay it. As soon as your dog’s hindquarters hit the ground praise and treat. Repeat as many times as you can, so long as you and your dog are still enjoying yourselves. Praise and treat every sit. If your dog does not sit right away you can still reward them for looking up! That they are motivated to keep trying.
Step 3. Repeat it. Repeat the exercise several times over a few days. If you dog wants you to give them a treat, or feed them, or open the door, you can ask them to sit first. Then reward them with whatever they are requesting. Once your dog anticipates what you’re asking them to do (usually after 3-4 times with a lure) take the treat out of your hand and make the exact same gesture only without food in your hand.
Step 4. Say it. Tell your dog, “Sit” in a cheerful tone of voice then pause a second (one-one thousand) and follow with the same visual cue. After 3-4 attempts say the verbal cue then wait a few seconds for your dog to offer the behavior in response. If they do not respond within 3-5 seconds go ahead and clarify your request with the visual cue.
WHEN TO PRACTICE ‘SIT’
Before throwing a ball, Frisbee, rope-toy, etc.
Before giving your dog a toy.
Before putting the food bowl down.
Before handing over a treat or chewie.
Before opening a door.
Before putting on a leash to go for a walk.
Before taking off a leash at the park or beach.
Before dishing out a belly rub or good ear scratch.
Before hopping into or out of the car.
Before allowing your dog onto the couch with you.
Troubleshooting: If your dog is struggling to learn to sit try breaking the exercise into small steps. First treat your dog for putting her nose in the air. If you dog backs away when you cue the sit try standing in front of a wall or fence. Treat generously and take a break when your dog’s bottom finally touches the ground or after 10 attempts, whichever comes first.
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