Teaching your dog basic commands can definitely encourage good behavior. Likewise, this experience will provide a fun and great opportunity for bonding. Thus, it is very important to train your dog or your puppies right away.
Here are four essential commands you can teach your dog, which you can actually do by yourself:
Sit
This is one of the easiest skills to teach to a dog. And once you teach your dog how to sit they become much easier to manage. So, how you can teach your dog to sit?
First, hold a treat close to your dog's nose and slowly move your hand up-- allowing your dog to move his head and follow the treat. And as your dog's head moves up, his butt will eventually lower down. Once your buddy is in the sitting position, say "sit" and give the treat. Then praise him for his good attitude.
Repeat the procedure every day. You can also reinforce it with other situations like before you put a food in his bowl or before you take him out for a walk.
Come
This is a very helpful tool. If your dog accidentally escapes from his fence, you can use this command to bring him back to you.
Start by putting a leash on your dog. Then, gently pull the leash and say "come." When your dog walks towards you, praise him and give him a reward.
Down
This type of command is often difficult for many dogs to learn because the position is a submissive posture. Thus, it is very important for you to be patient and always use a happy tone.
First, hold a good smelling treat. When your dog notices it and starts sniffing on it, slowly move your hand to the floor, so your dog will follow the scent. Once he stretches his body out and in the down position, say "down." Then, give him the treat and show affection.
Stay
This is one of the hardest commands to teach. But once your dog knows how to stay put, he can forward to more advanced lessons.
You need to ask your dog first to sit. Then, step in front of him and give the stay command. After which, take a few step, if he didn't break his stay then reward him and share affection.
Training your dog is definitely hard but it's worth the investment of your time and effort!
