6. Lead

Be your pet’s leader with consistent instruction.

Be your pet’s leader.

Having your pet sit before getting a treat, putting down their food bowl, going outside, coming inside, getting out of a vehicle, etc. will help them to learn self-control and it helps them to understand they must do something (sit) before getting something they want.

Being consistent with this simple request (sit) is key - they will soon do it automatically to receive their reward quickly.

Use your pet’s name.

Be sure to always say their name first to get their attention. If they just stand there and ignore your request, do not reward them. For example, instead of placing the food bowl on the floor, place it high on a counter and walk away for a minute or two, giving them time to think about why you did not give them their food.

After a few minutes, pick up the bowl and tell them to sit. Nine times out of ten they will sit and wait for the bowl to be placed in front of them. The same goes for coming in and out, getting out of a vehicle, etc.

Don’t underestimate your pet.

There may be some confusion, and clarification will need to be shown, but most often they do not sit because it has not been consistently reinforced.

This exercise may seem simple and maybe more trouble than it’s worth, but this will help make it clear to your pet that obeying your request will be greatly beneficial to them.

There are many types of rewards to be gained, i.e. belly rubs, scratching their favorite spot, playing fetch, getting a favorite food toy; all the while being praised for being the best do in whole wide world!

Download the PDF reference guide: