Down Command My Training Journey

Let me tell you about my journey training Max. It wasn't easy, and I made plenty of mistakes along the way, but I learned a lot.

I learned this the hard way, but at least Max is okay now.

after your dog has learned the “sit” command, it’s time to teach “down.” this command is an essential part of your obedience training foundation.

I wish I had known this sooner.

the easiest way to teach “down” is to use a tasty food treat or piece of kibble, both to lure your dog into a down position and then to reward them for obeying the command..

Your dog stands up instead of lying down: If your dog stands up, just keep the treat in the palm of your closed hand until they lie down.

If your dog starts to ease down to the floor, coax and encourage them.

Your dog lowers their head to the floor and raises their rump in the air: Move the treat toward her chest, and her back end should come down.

1. Sit on the floor with your dog to your side. Keep one knee drawn up to create a tunnel big enough for your dog to crawl through.

I wish I had known this sooner.

3. Repeat the exercise several times.

Once your dog is quickly lying down when you lure them with the treat, introduce the verbal cue.

Once your dog has the hang of the “down” command, you can slowly make it more challenging.

Stand 1 foot away from your dog when you ask them to lie down, then 2 feet away, and keep increasing the distance.

Add a new challenge only if your dog is responding reliably.

If your dog gets confused, take away the challenge and try again, moving more slowly this time..

I'm sharing this because I wish someone had told me earlier. Hopefully this helps someone else avoid the same mistakes I made with Max.