Training your dog is an essential step to ensure their safety, improve their behavior, and strengthen the bond between you and your furry friend. Teaching basic commands creates a clear structure, helping your dog understand what you expect from them while making everyday life smoother for both of you. Whether you’re working with a playful puppy or an older dog, training can be a fun and rewarding experience. Here are 10 must-learn commands every dog owner should teach their pet for a happier, well-behaved companion.

1. Sit

One of the most basic and essential commands, “sit,” is often the first thing dogs learn—and for good reason. It’s simple, highly useful, and applies to a variety of situations. Whether you’re greeting guests, serving meals, or just managing an excitable pup, the “sit” command is a great way to instill calm behavior. To teach it, hold a treat close to your dog’s nose, then slowly lift it over their head. As they follow the treat, they’ll naturally lower into a sitting position. Once seated, say “sit,” reward them with a treat, and give lots of praise!

2. Stay

The “stay” command is essential for helping your dog remain in place, whether you’re preventing them from darting out the door or asking for calm during a busy moment. To teach “stay,” begin by having your dog sit or lie down. Then, hold out your hand like a stop signal and firmly say “stay.” Start small—ask them to stay for just a few seconds before releasing them with a word like “okay” or “release.” Gradually increase both the time and the distance between you and your dog before rewarding them. Patience and consistency are key to mastering this helpful command!

3. Come

“Come” is a crucial command for your dog’s safety, helping them return to you regardless of distractions or situations. This command is really important when your dog is off-leash in a public space or if they wander too far ahead while you’re walking. Begin teaching “come” by gently guiding your dog with a leash. Cheerfully say their name and then add “come.” When they come to you, give them a treat and some praise. Practice this regularly, slowly extending the distance between you and your dog until they consistently come when called, even with distractions around.

4. Down

Getting your dog to lie “down” on command is a great way to help them relax in energetic moments and keep their attention on you. This is useful when you need your dog to calm down, like during mealtime or when guests are visiting. Start by having your dog sit before teaching “down.” Next, take a treat in your hand and gently lower it to the ground, encouraging them to lie down. When their body goes down for the treat, say “down” and give them a reward as soon as they are completely lying down. Using repetition and positive reinforcement will help your dog learn this calming command quickly.

5. Leave It

The “leave it” command is critical for keeping your dog safe by teaching them to ignore harmful or tempting objects, such as trash or other unsafe items. This command helps your dog learn to pay attention to you instead of getting distracted by something they find interesting. Begin by holding a treat in your hand. When your dog attempts to sniff or lick it, say “leave it” and close your hand. If they give up, give them a different treat as a reward. Start with various items and slowly make them more challenging. With practice, your dog will understand to avoid tempting or dangerous items when you give the command.

6. Heel

The “heel” command helps your dog walk peacefully next to you without tugging on the leash. This command is great for keeping control while walking, especially in busy or crowded places. To teach your dog to “heel,” begin by walking with them on a short leash and say “heel” when they are next to you. If they begin to move ahead or fall behind, pause and invite them to come back to your side. Give them a reward when they stay in the right position. By practicing regularly, your dog will get the hang of staying close during walks, which will make your time together more fun for both of you.

7. Wait

“Wait” is a key command that helps teach patience and control over impulses. “Wait” is used for shorter pauses, like before crossing the street or entering a room, while “stay” asks your dog to remain in place for longer periods. To teach your dog to “wait,” have them sit or stand still, then say “wait” while extending your hand in front of them. After a few seconds, let them go with a word like “okay” or “go.” Try using this command in different scenarios, like before mealtime or during walks, to help them learn to wait for permission.

8. Off

“Off” is a command that helps your dog learn to stop jumping on people, furniture, or countertops. Setting boundaries and practicing good manners is essential. When your dog jumps up, simply say “off” and gently help them back down to the ground. Give them a reward right after they leave the object or person to encourage the behavior you want to promote. With time, your dog will discover that staying on all fours brings more rewards than jumping around. Regularly using the “off” command can help minimize unwanted behaviors, leading to a more well-mannered dog.

9. Drop It

The “drop it” command is important for helping your dog let go of things they shouldn’t have, whether it’s a toy they’re holding onto or something unsafe they’ve found. To teach your dog to “drop it,” present a toy or object and say “drop it” while holding a treat close to their nose. As soon as they let go of the object, give them a treat and offer some praise right away. Keep doing this until they reliably let go of objects when asked. This command is crucial for keeping your dog safe, particularly when they might grab harmful or unsuitable things.

10. No

The “no” command is a clear way to tell your dog when they’re misbehaving, like chewing on furniture, barking too much, or jumping on people. Use “no” carefully and in a calm, confident tone. This way, your dog will grasp the boundary without becoming scared. When your dog is misbehaving, gently but firmly say “no” to correct them in the moment. Quickly guide them to a better activity, like offering a chew toy if they’re chewing on the furniture. Being consistent is essential for your dog to grasp and respond to the “no” command.