Day 5: Teaching “Down” (Lie Down)
Week 1: Foundations & Communication
Goal:
Teach your dog to lie down on command using a food lure, helping with relaxation, patience, and self-control.
What You Need:
Treats (small, soft, and high-value)
A quiet space with minimal distractions
A comfortable surface (like a carpet or rug) for your dog to lie on
What to Do:
Start in a Sit Position: Have your dog sit in front of you.
Lure Into Position: Hold a treat close to their nose, then slowly lower it straight down to the floor between their front paws.
Encourage the Down: As your dog follows the treat downward, gradually move it forward away from their paws to encourage them to stretch out into a down position.
Mark and Reward: The moment their elbows and chest touch the ground, say “Yes!” and immediately give them a treat.
Repeat: Practice 10–15 times in short, positive sessions.
Tips for Success:
Be Patient: Some dogs may hesitate to lie down at first. If needed, move the treat slowly or reward small progress (e.g., if they lower their head or shift weight down).
Avoid Pushing: Let your dog figure it out naturally—never force them into position.
Add the Cue: Once they are consistently following the lure into a down position, start saying “Down” just before moving the treat. Over time, they’ll learn to respond to the word alone.
Practice on Different Surfaces: Some dogs prefer lying down on soft areas—try using a mat if they seem hesitant.
Why It Works:
The “Down” command is useful for calm behaviour, settling in public places, and impulse control. It’s also a great way to help excitable dogs relax.
End of Day 5:
By the end of today’s session, your dog should be starting to follow the lure into a down position. With daily practice, they’ll soon respond to the verbal command alone.
Keep up the great work—your dog is building a solid foundation! 🐾
Ready for the next step? Let’s keep building on your dog’s foundation! 🐾
Further Reading:
Come back tomorrow for day 6
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