Welcome back to Teach My Doggy, dog school for the absowoofly pawsome! This time “Pawfessor Charles” we will be teaching your dog the ‘down’ command. Watch his class below:

YOU WILL NEED

• Your pup's favourite treats
• A distraction free space
• The sit command
• Difficulty score: 2 out of 5

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Hold a small bite size treat in your hand.

2. Guide your dog into the sit position, ideally they should know this command by now without needing a treat.

3. Once in sit, use the treat to guide them to the floor, keeping the treat close to their nose as you do so.

4. As soon as your dogs arms and elbows are on the floor give them the treat and say “down” nice and clearly.

5. Repetition is key, try not to get frustrated if they are trying to get the treat or scratching at your hands.

6. Once they’ve got the down command on the floor, start moving your hand movement off the floor. Gradually, by moving your hand command, and also as your dog starts understanding your vocal command, you won’t need to bend down every time.

THINGS TO REMEMBER

• Your dog needs some time to process and learn the command, so don’t worry if they don’t get it straight away.
• Keep lessons short, around 5 to 10 minutes should be fine for a training session.
• Try not to repeat the word “DOWN” more than once as this can confuse your pup.
• If your dog isn’t interested they may be tired, so try again in a few hours or the next day.

Class over, until next time pawsome pups!

This article is for information only, and should never replace any advice, diagnosis or treatment from your veterinary surgeon or canine behaviourist. Always contact your local vet or out of hours vet without delay if you have any concerns about your dog or their behaviour.