Commands for Dogs: Why They Are Necessary, Training Techniques

Every owner wants to have an obedient dog that follows at least a few important commands. The only way to achieve this is through training at an early age. If owners miss this window or decide not to train their pet at all, they will have to deal with the animal's uncontrollability and always expect surprises.

The Most Basic Commands for Your Pet

Some do not see the need for training: their pets may not damage furniture and are friendly. However, during walks, it is difficult to distract them from bad food, calm them down, or call them back if they break free from the leash. Remember that large breed dogs, especially guard and fighting breeds, must be trained! Without proper skills, they are not just uncontrollable, but dangerous.

There are about 11 commands in total, but not all are necessary for a home dog. The following are considered basic. If the pet masters them, there will be no behavioral issues.

Command "Come!"

Simultaneously with the verbal command, tap your thigh with your right hand. This command allows you to control your pet. First, practice it on a long leash:

• Let the dog go a short distance.
• Give the command simultaneously with the gesture.
• When the pet approaches, reward them with a treat.

If they do not come, pull the leash towards you with short tugs, repeating the command without irritation. When the dog is next to you, praise them.

Command "No!"

This is a prohibitive command used when the puppy is doing something undesirable. Practice it first at home: when the dog chews on things or scatters food, say "No" in a stern voice and stop them. Then, if the puppy follows the command on their own, reward them.

Command "Heel!"

Practice this when the pet has already had enough exercise and is not distracted. Pull the leash closer to you, give the command "Heel." If the pet moves away from you, tug the leash. Repeat several times, reinforcing with treats. Over time, practice the command without the leash.

Command "Sit!"

Raise your hand with an open palm (back of the hand facing the pet) + give the verbal command. Before the gesture, let the puppy sniff the treat and raise it above their head. If necessary, guide their body down to help them sit. After successful execution, give a treat.

Command "Place!"

This command is given for the dog to take its place. First, organize this area for your pet by placing their favorite toy, mat, or bed there. Then place a familiar item in front of them, command "Place." At the same time, point downwards from your waist with your right hand. Next, call the pet to you, give the command, and wait for them to return to the item and sit (or lie down). Sometimes "Place" is practiced after "Lie down."

Command "Walk!"

This command is necessary when letting the pet off the leash. When giving it, point in the direction of movement. Usually, it’s very easy to learn: every time you go outside, say "Walk." Often, pets themselves make the connection between the word and the process: they bring the leash and spin around the door.

How to Teach Your Dog to Obey

Pets are capable of learning, but it should start no later than the recommended age. The lower limit depends on the breed: Labradors can be trained from 2 months, with an average age of about 3 months. At this time, the dog can absorb information at the level of a 4-5 year old child.

Training begins at home and then moves outside. Basic commands are practiced until the pet follows them unconditionally. Until then, they should not be let off the leash. Sessions should be conducted in a good mood, after the animal has relieved itself.

By 10 months, the puppy becomes sexually mature. It is already more difficult to teach them commands, requiring more time and authority. It is not necessary to learn everything at once: not all owners need commands like "Attack" or "Fetch."

At an early age, it is essential to show the pet its place in the family: it is not equal to all family members but is respected. If spoiled, the dog will have obedience issues in adulthood.

Ways to Reward Command Execution

The most productive way is through rewards. It is based on positive experiences for the completed action. The dog develops a reflex, and over time, it may not need constant reinforcement with food praise. The most effective rewards are treats from a pet store. The dog can also be petted or given toys.

Training is effective if it is regular. Start with the simplest commands like "No," "Heel." Then move on to more complex ones. The command "Attack" should only be practiced with an instructor; it is suitable for balanced dogs aged 10 months and older. During training, do not resort to cruelty: no hitting, shouting, or taking away food or water.

The owner will need to work long and hard with the puppy to achieve results. Remember, the dog should follow you, not the other way around. If independent training does not work, consult a dog trainer— they will show you ways to reward, command techniques, and how to build the right relationship with your pet.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to start training a Russian Toy Terrier?

Training should begin at an early age to establish obedience and avoid behavioral problems in the future.

What commands are basic for a Russian Toy Terrier?

Basic commands include "Come!", "No!", "Heel!", "Sit!", "Place!" and "Walk!". These commands will help in managing your pet.

How to properly teach the command "Come"?

Let the dog go a short distance, give the command and gesture, then reward with a treat when the pet approaches.

What to do if the dog does not respond to the command "No"?

Use a stern voice to stop undesirable behavior, and reward the dog when it follows the command.

How to teach the command "Walk"?

Every time before going outside, say "Walk" so the pet associates this word with going for a walk.