It is imperative that your pet knows and reacts to basic commands. This will keep him under your control and out of harm’s way. There are many ways to achieve this, but the best is through the reward system. The reward can be a treat or a play object such as a ball or stuffed toy.Start with the “Stay” command. Actually this is after your pet has learned to sit. Have him sit in a spot and speak the word ‘stay’ and move away slowly, just a few feet. Continue to tell him to stay, and after he has remained for a short period, reward him and tell him “Good Stay”. Continue to do this and gradually increase the time he waits for the reward. Soon he will understand the command.The same command should be given when you are feeding your dog.
This reinforces the “Stay” command and also tells him that you are in charge of the food. It is YOUR food until you release him to eat it. Do this at every meal and very gradually increase the time interval of the ‘stay’ command. Keep eye contact so he knows you are serious about this. As he progresses, occasionally take your eyes off him for a brief period to gauge what he will do. After awhile you will be able to leave the room and he will not touch the food until you give him the OK. I use the release command of “Good Boy” or “Good Girl”.When out for a walk, every time you need to stop, speak the command “Stay” just before you stop. To reinforce the command on a walk, you may also use a short but firm tug on the leash, with a quick release after the tug. Reward him for quick obedience. When you encounter distractions, use the command “Stay” and the leash tug to get his attention away from the distraction and onto you. This may take a little time, especially with distractions, but it will be well worth it. This is something you can do everyday. The more you do it the more it will reinforce the training. Be sure to reward appropriately for good response.After your pet has mastered the “Stay” command, you can move onto the “Come” command. The importance of these basic commands is to help you establish your leadership in the pack. You have to be the Alpha, and actually your dog will enjoy being the follower, and will do whatever he can to please you. Remember there are only 2 positions in the world of dogs that of Leader and Follower. By using these basic commands on a consistent basis you will establish yourself as the leader. Please be patient, especially if you have young rambunctious dogs; it does take some time with some animals to “get it”.I have always considered my dogs as perennial 2 year old.
As mature adults, dogs remind me of two year old children. They focus on the moment, love to play, constantly want to explore, move quickly to new activities, get into everything, and exhibit unselfish affection. Children grow out of this wonderful phase, but dogs do not, and that may be one of their most endearing qualities. Treat them well and earn their respect and they will be a constant source of joy.
