Since dogs communicate primarily with body language, whatever action K-9 handlers want a dog to perform can be taught with hand signals. There are no official hand signs---trainers use what works for them. Hand signals are vital in police situations when dogs are at a distance, when silence is important, when it's noisy and to reinforce voice commands.
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Sit
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"Sit" is the most natural action and easiest to teach. Holding a treat or favorite toy, raise your hand from your side to above the dog's nose. The dog will sit naturally as it follows the lure. When the dog's bottom is on the floor, reward him with the treat or toy. Begin slowly, in short daily sessions, and be patient. Gradually extend your arm in front and raise your hand, palm up, without a treat. When the dog sits, praise her highly and signal "good dog" with a thumbs up (or two for a really good job).
Down
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Turn your palm down and lower your hand to signal "down." Begin with a treat between your fingers as a lure and lower your hand to the floor. When the dog lies down, give him the treat and verbal praise. Graduate to extending your arm palm down and lowering your hand. Reward good behavior with a thumbs up.
Come
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Perhaps the most important command, "come," can keep a dog out of danger and trouble. The signal is to extend your arm straight out, then place your palm on your heart. As with all other commands, it can be taught with rewards at a close distance at first. Practice it on leash until the dog obeys consistently and reliably at longer and longer distances. Then practice it off leash in a safe, enclosed area.
Stay
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Another signal and command that can protect a dog and hold him back until he is needed is "stay." Make a stop sign with your palm up perpendicular to your arm. At first, hold your palm close to his muzzle without touching it. Require obedience for only a few seconds and give a reward. Increase the length of time and the distance you move away from him gradually until he can stay still for five minutes. This is a good time to teach the OK signal---the thumb and index finger held in a circle---to release the dog from the command. You can follow it with the "come" signal so the dog approaches to be petted and praised and for a brief play time.
Training methods
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There are three basic training techniques. Trainers use compulsion, as with a choke collar; electrical shocks; and positive rewards. As training situations grow more demanding, or if there are problems with the dog's obedience using positive rewards, compulsion-style stimulants are often used.
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