Sit is the first command most people teach and the one most often taught incorrectly. When done right, a reliable sit takes 5-10 minutes of focused training to establish. When done wrong, owners spend weeks getting inconsistent results and blame the dog.
The Lure Method
Hold a treat at your dog's nose. Slowly move it up and back over their head — not too high or they'll jump. As their nose follows the treat upward, their rear end naturally drops toward the ground. The moment their bottom touches down, say 'yes' or click, and give the treat.
Do this 5-10 times in a row. You will see the sit happen faster with each repetition. Within one session most dogs are sitting reliably for the lure.
Adding the Word
Add the word 'sit' just before you lure after the first few successful repetitions. Say it once, calmly, then lure. Never repeat the command — saying 'sit sit sit' teaches the dog that 'sit' means 'I'll keep asking until you do it eventually.'
Fading the Lure
After 10-15 successful lure sits, try the hand motion without a treat in your hand. Reward from your other hand when they sit. Most dogs make this transition quickly. The goal is responding to the hand signal, then to just the word.
Common Mistakes
Pushing the dog's rear down — this creates resistance, not learning. Repeating the command multiple times — teaches them it's optional. Training when the dog is hyper or distracted — set them up to succeed in a calm environment first.
Rewarding With a Lick Mat
For extended training sessions, a frozen lick mat at the end of the session gives a high-value reinforcer that ends training on an extremely positive note.
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