Intermediate Dog Training - Sit Up, Heel & Lie Down
Written by Joel Silverman   
Tuesday, 02 December 2008
Once your dog has accepted the Sit, Stay and Come commands, he is very likely ready to move on to Intermediate Training. At this stage, teaching him to Lie Down on command is probably your best option simply because he is already familiar with the Sit behavior.
by JoelSilverman


Once your dog has accepted the Sit, Stay and Come commands, he is very likely ready to move on to Intermediate Training. At this stage, teaching him to Lie Down on command is probably your best option simply because he is already familiar with the Sit behavior.

The Lie Down command is simply a step away from the Sit command. With your dog in the sitting position, take a treat and move it a bit closer to the ground prior to giving it to him. Continue this process, each time moving the treat closer to the ground before allowing him to take it. As you move the treat farther away from him, he must lie down in order to reach the treat. Now is the time to speak the words, "Lie Down." He may try to get up in order to retrieve his goody but he must remain in the Sit position. Be patient, this may take several tries before he thoroughly understands.

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?

After your little friend is consistent with the Sit behavior, training him to Sit Up is a snap. Choose a bit of food or his favorite treat, hold it over his head while he is in a Sitting position but low enough so that he can reach it. Continue this maneuver but raise the treat a bit higher each time so that he must stretch for it but 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."

Teaching you little pal Intermediate Behaviors is going to be a very rewarding experience, both for you and your dog. Remember, patience is the key and loving and accepting your pet will cause him to want to please you. Enjoy the time you have together.

About the Author:

Joel Silverman has trained killer whales at Sea World and hosted the TV series "Good Dog U" on Animal Planet. For free dog training online and detailed dog training tips and techniques, go to the CompanionsForLife website.

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