10 Basic Dog Commands to Train in 10 Days

Training your furry friend is not just about teaching them tricks; it’s about building a strong bond and ensuring their safety. Whether you’re a first-time dog owner or a seasoned pet parent, mastering the basic commands is crucial. In this guide, we’ll walk you through 10 essential dog commands you can teach in just 10 days. Let’s dive in! 🐾

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. The Importance of Basic Commands
3. Day 1: Sit 🪑
4. Day 2: Stay ⏳
5. Day 3: Down 🛏️
6. Day 4: Come 🐕
7. Day 5: Heel 🚶‍♂️
8. Day 6: Leave It 🚫
9. Day 7: Drop It 💧
10. Day 8: Wait ⏱️
11. Day 9: Off 🚫🐾
12. Day 10: Watch Me 👀
13. Conclusion
14. FAQ

The Importance of Basic Commands

Before we jump into the commands, let’s discuss why they’re important. Basic commands ensure your dog listens to you in different situations, creating a safer environment for both of you. They also help curb unwanted behaviors and strengthen your connection. Plus, a well-trained dog is a happy dog! 🐶

Day 1: Sit 🪑

Sit is probably the most foundational command. It’s simple, yet powerful, and serves as a stepping stone for more complex commands.

How to Train:

Hold a treat close to your dog’s nose and move your hand up, allowing their head to follow the treat and causing their bottom to lower. Once in a sitting position, say “Sit” and give the treat along with affection.

Day 2: Stay ⏳

Stay helps keep your dog in one place, which is essential for their safety in busy or dangerous environments.

How to Train:

Ask your dog to “Sit.” Open your palm in front of you and say “Stay.” Step back a few paces. If they stay, reward them with a treat and praise. Gradually increase the distance.

Day 3: Down 🛏️

Down is a calming command that helps manage your dog’s energy levels and behavior.

How to Train:

From a “Sit” position, hold a treat in your hand, bringing it to the floor. Say “Down” as they follow the treat to the floor. Reward them once they’re lying down.

Day 4: Come 🐕

This command is essential for your dog’s safety, ensuring they return to you in potentially hazardous situations.

How to Train:

Attach a leash and collar to your dog. Gently pull the leash while saying “Come.” When they reach you, reward them with treats and affection.

Day 5: Heel 🚶‍♂️

Heeling ensures your dog walks beside you, making walks more enjoyable and manageable.

How to Train:

With your dog on a leash, say “Heel” and start walking. Keep treats at your waist to encourage them to stay by your side. Reward frequently as they follow.

Day 6: Leave It 🚫

Leave It helps prevent your dog from picking up potentially dangerous objects from the ground.

How to Train:

Place a treat in both hands. Show one hand with the treat and say “Leave It.” Ignore any attempts to get the treat and wait until they lose interest. Reward with the treat from the other hand.

Day 7: Drop It 💧

This command is useful when your dog picks up something they shouldn’t have.

How to Train:

During play, give your dog a toy to hold. Say “Drop It” and show a treat. When they release the toy, give the treat and praise them.

Day 8: Wait ⏱️

Wait is similar to stay but typically used in situations where your dog needs to pause briefly.

How to Train:

Before crossing a street or exiting a door, say “Wait.” Use a hand signal and reward them once they’ve paused for a moment.

Day 9: Off 🚫🐾

Off is crucial for preventing jumping on people or furniture.

How to Train:

When your dog jumps, say “Off” and turn away. Reward and praise them once all four paws are on the ground.

Day 10: Watch Me 👀

This command captures your dog’s attention, making it easier to give further instructions.

How to Train:

Hold a treat near your eyes and say “Watch Me.” Once your dog makes eye contact, reward them. Practice frequently for better results.

Conclusion

Training your dog with these basic commands not only makes your life easier but also enhances your bond. Remember, patience and consistency are key. Every dog learns at their own pace, so keep the sessions short and fun. Happy training! 🐕‍🦺

FAQ

1. How long should each training session be?

Keep sessions short, around 5-10 minutes, to maintain your dog’s attention and interest.

2. What if my dog doesn’t learn a command in one day?

That’s okay! Every dog learns differently. Be patient and consistent, and they will eventually get it.

3. Can I train my older dog using these commands?

Absolutely! While puppies might pick up commands faster, older dogs can learn too with a bit of patience.

4. What treats should I use for training?

Use small, soft treats that your dog loves. This will motivate them to learn quickly.

5. How can I ensure my dog remembers these commands in the long run?

Practice regularly and incorporate the commands into daily activities to reinforce them.

Start Your Dog Training Journey Today! Here