How to Train a Dog to "Sit" (K9-1.com), by Dog Training World on YouTube. 7 min 28 s.
- Video length
- 7 min 28 s
- Time to do it
- 10 minutes
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Steps
- 9
What you need
Steps
Pick a quiet spot with no other pets or noise. Have a handful of pea-sized soft treats in a pouch or pocket so you can reward fast.
Hold a treat just in front of your dog's nose. Let it sniff but do not let it grab the treat yet.
Move the treat slowly up and slightly back over the dog's head. Most dogs lower their rear and sit as their nose follows the treat.
The moment the rear touches the floor, say yes and give the treat. Reward within one second so the dog links sitting to the reward.
If the dog backs up or jumps, move the treat more slowly and keep it closer to the nose. Do not push the dog's rear down with your hand.
Repeat five to ten times, then take a short break. End each session while the dog is still eager.
Once the dog sits reliably, add the word sit just before the hand motion. Say it once, calmly, then lure the sit and reward.
Fade the treat lure over several sessions. Use the empty hand motion, reward from your other hand or a pouch, and keep praising.
Practice in new rooms and with mild distractions, then on a leash outside. Reward every correct sit at first, then reward randomly.
Tips and common mistakes
Keep sessions to two or three minutes and do several a day, since short and frequent beats long and tiring.
Never push or hold the dog's rear down, as this can make sitting feel unpleasant and slow learning.
Use tiny treats so the dog does not get full or gain weight during training.
Say the cue word only once per attempt so the dog learns that one word means sit.
Questions
How long does it take a puppy to learn sit?
Many puppies sit on a hand motion within a few days of short daily sessions. Reliable response to the spoken word often takes one to two weeks of practice.
What if my dog will not sit for a treat?
Try a higher value treat like small pieces of chicken or cheese, and train when the dog is hungry but not frantic. If the dog is too excited, work in a quieter room.
Should I use a clicker?
A clicker can help if you mark the exact moment the rear touches the floor. If you do not have one, a calm yes word works just as well.
This guide was drafted from the video's details and general task knowledge. It has not been checked against the full video. Check the video and relevant product instructions before following a procedure. Report a correction.
