How to Train Your Dog to Sit, Stay, Come and Lay

Training a dog to sit, come, stay and lie down should be done in an order that is easier for the dog to understand, which will make training easier for the dog and yourself. Training the dog to learn and listen to these four commands should take one week for each. Never rush the dog to learn. Only practice one command at a time until the dog responds properly to each given command.

Things You'll Need

  • Small training treats
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Instructions

    • 1

      Start the training with the sit command. Stand in front of the dog. Hold one treat in your hand over the dog. While telling the dog by name to sit down, push down on its backside until he sits. Praise it and give it the treat. If the dog jumps at the treat while you are trying to get it to sit, say "No," and continue with saying "Sit" and pushing down on the dog's backside. Practice this for 15 minutes a day for a week until the dog sits on command every time.

    • 2

      Continue the training in the second week for sit, come and stay. Tell your dog to sit. Put your hand out in front of its face with the palm facing it to act as a stop sign. Slowly back up about 4 feet while repeating its name and "Stay." Drop your hand and say "Come." Reward your dog with a small treat. Keep training daily for 15 minutes a day for one week. Each time you back up make it a little longer distance between you and the dog, but don't leave its sight.

    • 3

      Start the third week with the same commands that the dog has learned, but use the stay and come command with greater distance. For instance, tell the dog to stay and walk to the house or garage, even out of sight if you can. When the dog stays in place, call it to come to you. Reward it with its name, praise and a small treat. Do the distance training for an entire week about 10 to 15 minutes a day.

    • 4

      Hold a treat in your hand above the dog. Tell it to sit. Bring your hand down to the ground in front of the dog while saying its name and "Lay down" or "Down." You may need to push down on its shoulders so it knows what you mean. When the dog lies down, reward it and give it praise. Continue training for one week.