The Down Command
Once your dog has mastered the sit and stay commands, you may begin work on the down command. This is the single-word command for lie down. Use the down command only when you want the dog to lie down. If you want your dog to get off your sofa or to stop jumping on people, use the off command. Do not interchange these two commands. Doing so will only confuse your dog, after which evoking the right response will become next to impossible. The down position is especially useful if you want your dog to remain in a particular place for a long period of time. A dog is usually far more inclined to stay put when he is lying down than when he is sitting. Teaching this command may take more time and patience than other lessons. It is believed by some animal behaviorists that assuming the down position somehow represents submissiveness to the dog. It’s all part of canine body language.
Begin with your dog sitting in front of and facing you. Hold a treat in your right hand with the excess part of the leash in your left hand. Bring the treat under your dog’s nose and slowly move your hand down to the ground. Your dog will follow the treat with his head and neck. As he does, give the command, “down,” and exert light pressure on his shoulders with your left hand. If your dog resists the pressure on his shoulders, do not continue pushing down. Doing so will only create more resistance.
An alternative method to getting your dog headed into the down position is to move around to the dog’s right side, and as you draw his attention downward with your right hand, place your right hand or arm under the dog’s front legs and gently slide them forward. In the case of a very young dog or puppy, you will undoubtedly have to be on your knees next to the youngster. As your dog’s forelegs begin to slide out to the front, keep moving the treat along the ground until the dog’s whole body is lying down while continuing to repeat, “down.” once he has assumed the position you desire, give him the treat and a lot of praise. Continue assisting your dog into the down position until he does so on his own. Be firm, be patient, and be prepared for those occasional “I have no idea what you mean” looks your dog student may give you.
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