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How to teach your dog to sit
Teaching your dog to sit is a fundamental skill that significantly improves their focus, self-control, and your overall communication. This positive and engaging game uses simple luring and marking techniques to help your dog quickly understand and offer a reliable sit, forming a strong foundation for all future training.
With practice this will help you achieve:
- Greeting new people politely
- Waiting for their food bowl
- Staying still to put on a lead
- Crossing the road
What you'll need
- High-Value Treats (small, soft, and easy for your dog to eat quickly, like cheese or cooked chicken)
- A Quiet, Low-Distraction Space (start indoors or in a calm garden)
Step-by-step
- The Food Lure: Hold a tasty treat in your hand. Place the treat directly under your dog’s nose. Slowly move it in an arc up and over their head.
- The “Sit” Moment: As your dog follows the treat, their bum will naturally drop to the floor. The instant their bum touches the floor, say “Yes!” (your marker word) and immediately deliver the treat to their mouth.
- Repeat & Refine: Repeat this several times in short bursts (1-2 minutes). Focus on making the timing of your “Yes!” and and treat delivery precise. Keep the lure subtle as your dog begins to understand the movement.
- Add the Cue: Once your dog is reliably sitting with the lure, you can introduce the verbal cue. Just before their bum hits the floor, say “Sit”, then immediately follow with the marker, “Yes!”, and reward.
Top tips for success
- Use treats to make the game exciting and highly rewarding for your dog.
- Keep your training sessions short (1-3 minutes) to maintain your dog’s enthusiasm and focus.
- The “Yes!” is a crucial marker! It quickly and clearly communicates to your dog the exact moment they performed the correct behaviour, helping them learn faster.
- In the early stages, if your dog is distracted or sniffing around, get their attention first before asking for a sit. You want them focused on you.
Ready to build on this foundation?
Teaching a solid sit is a cornerstone of good dog manners and communication. If you're struggling to get results, or you're ready to teach your dog to hold their sit for longer durations or in more distracting environments, I'm based in Epsom and here to help. A personalised One-to-One session can provide the tailored guidance you need to succeed.
