Puppy foundations
Teach sit
A calm, easy way to ask for a pause — useful a hundred times a week.
5 minBeginner
You'll need: A few small treats, A non-slip floor.
How to do it
- Step 01
Treat near the nose
Hold a small treat just in front of your dog's nose, close enough that they can smell it but not snatch it.
- Step 02
Slowly up and back
Move your hand gently upward and a little back over their head. Their nose follows, and their bottom usually drifts towards the floor.
- Step 03
Say it, then reward
The moment their bottom touches the floor, say "sit" and give the treat. Say the word as it happens, not before.
- Step 04
A few goes, then a break
Three or four repetitions, then stop. If your dog jumps at your hand, lower it a little — the treat is probably too high.
How did it go?
Tell us about your dog and we'll keep track of what you've worked on, and suggest what to try next.
A good one to do next
Settling on a matGive your dog a place where nothing is expected of them.