Training your dog to sit

The first step toward many years of obedience, the sit command. Here’s how to teach it fast.

Start with your dog on a leash. Take a small treat in your other hand and slowly pass it in front of your dog’s nose, then up toward his ears. When the head goes up, the butt goes down. Most dogs will automatically sit when they look up at the treat. Reward your dog right away with the treat and repeat, repeat, repeat.

Common mistakes:
Going too fast. Give your dog a chance to sniff the treat and then slowly bring it up. Going too fast will leave your dog confused.

Holding it too high. Doing so may cause your dog to jump up at the treat. Be sure to hold the treat just above his ears.

Not being prepared. Some dogs try to snatch the treat right away, be prepare for this and ready to jerk it back if he attempts to steal it. Then try again.

The Butt Scoop
If your dog is not motivated by food then another option is the Butt Scoop method. Start with your dog on a leash and at your left side. Hold the leash in your right hand and lift up and back slightly on the leash.
With your left hand reach down and with a “scooping” motion tuck your dog’s tail under him. The side of your hand should meet the back of your dog’s thighs.  When he sits reward him quickly and repeat.

If your dog is aggressive or unsure about being handled then do not try this method.

Be sure not to push down on your dog’s rump. The idea is to use his reflexes to cause him to sit, not to push him down.