Teaching your dog to “sit” is one of the most essential commands for obedience and safety. Not only does it lay the groundwork for advanced training, but it also strengthens the bond between you and your furry companion. At K9 University, we specialize in science-based dog training methods that create well-behaved pets and confident owners. In this guide, we’ll walk you through training your dog to sit—and share how our professional services can take your pup’s skills to the next level.
Why “Sit” is a Foundational Command
The “sit” command is more than a party trick. It helps:
- Prevent unwanted behaviors like jumping or bolting out the door.
- Promote calmness in exciting or stressful situations.
- Build trust and communication between you and your dog.
At K9 University, our obedience classes and private lessons use commands like “sit” to establish structure, making training easier and more effective long-term.
Step-by-Step Guide to Teaching “Sit”
What You’ll Need:
- A quiet, low-distraction environment.
- A round collar and a 6-foot leash.
- Patience and positivity!
- High-value treats (e.g., small pieces of chicken or store-bought rewards), to be used only whenthe dog is stubborn.
Step 1: Capture the Behavior
- Wait for your dog to naturally sit.
- Immediately say “SIT”, and gently touch praise the dog while saying “GOOD SIT”.
- Repeat until your dog associates sitting with the touch rewards.
- If the dog is stubborn, you may reward with a very small amount of a high value treat.
Pro Tip: Keep sessions short (5-10 minutes) to maintain your dog’s focus.
Step 2: Lure Them Into Position
- Hold a treat close to your dog’s nose.
- Slowly move the treat upward and backward over their head.
- As their head follows the treat, their bottom will lower into a sit.
- Mark the behavior with “SIT”, touch praise while saying “good-SIT”.
Step 3: Practice in Different Environments
“Proof” the command by practicing in new locations (e.g., parks or during walks). This teaches your dog to obey even with distractions.
Step 4: Phase Out Treats Gradually
If you used treats for training, you’ll need to phase them out. Replace treats with praise, pets, or intermittent rewards to keep the behavior consistent.
Common Challenges & Solutions
- My dog won’t sit: Ensure they’re not in pain or confused. Simplify the steps or consult our behavior correction team for personalized support.
- Distractions derail training: Start in a quiet space and slowly increase difficulty. Our private lessons focus on real-world obedience.
- Inconsistent responses: Use the same cue word and reward system every time.
When to Seek Professional Help
While many dogs learn “sit” quickly, others may need tailored strategies—especially if they’re anxious, overly energetic, or have a history of inconsistent training. At K9 University, our certified trainers use science-based methods to address:
- Stubbornness or lack of focus
- Fear-based reactions
- Advanced obedience goals
We also offer boarding with integrated training (Boarding School), so your dog learns even while you’re away!
Strengthen Your Bond with K9 University
Training your dog to sit is just the beginning. At K9 University, we’re committed to helping you build a lifelong partnership with your pet through:
- Obedience Classes: Group sessions for socialization and foundational skills.
- Private Lessons: One-on-one training for specific behavioral or training goals.
- Behavior Correction: Science-backed solutions for aggression, anxiety, and more.
Ready to transform your dog’s behavior? Contact K9 University today to book a session or explore our programs!
