“Sit” or “Watch” Training Protocol
This training protocol is great for building fundamental behaviors for any type of dog – especially high energy dogs! During each of my dog training sessions, I always start with the “Sit” and “Watch” commands. I believe in using operant conditioning to “catch” your dog sitting or watching you — rewarding them for the behavior WHEN they do it — not before. Find examples in my dog training videos.
Be proactive versus reactive in developing your relationship with your dog.
Be the best leader: Give your dog a job!
Be proactive versus reactive in developing your relationship with your dog.
Be the best leader: Give your dog a job!
THE SESSION — For Use When Teaching “Sit” or “Watch” Commands
I generally start with my dog off leash in the kitchen area — where food prep is performed.
- While slowly walking around in each location, do 10 repetitions of the “sit” command. The goal is 10 consecutive “sits” in a row using only one command for each.
- Reward each sit with a click, treat, or pat on the head.
- Take a 1 minute break to engage your dog with your touch, a toy, or a drink of water. Repeat the exercise for another 10 repetitions.
- Take another 1 minute break. Vary how you interact with your dog during your breaks.
- Do a final 10 repetitions for a total of 30 potential “sits” per session.
- Take a few minutes to love on your dog while calmly praising their accomplishment.
3 Sessions / Day - Spaced Throughout
Only 6-8 min per session
(including breaks and variable reinforcements).
THE LOCATIONS — For Use When Teaching “Sit” or “Watch” Commands
Be sure that every training location that you use has a “positive experience” associated with it for your dog.
VARY YOUR LOCATIONS EACH DAY —
PROGRESSING FROM FAMILIAR TO UNFAMILIAR.
IDEAS INCLUDE:
- Kitchen Area (near food prep)
- Family Gathering Room
-
“Potty” door - INSIDE the door with it at least
half way open - “Potty” door - OUTSIDE the door with it completely open
-
Outside on your patio, driveway, or deck
(Hard surface preferred) -
Outside in the grass, field, or wooded area
(The most distracting environment!) - Gradually add Distance, Duration, and Distraction to prove your dog’s reliability!
Use a collar and leash if your dog is a flight risk.
I encourage you
to relax
and be clear, concise,
and consistent with
your criteria
and find your next “Thank You”…
when your dog
is attentively
and willingly
following your lead!
Be proactive
versus reactive in
developing your relationship with
your dog.
Be the best leader: Give your dog a job!
THE LOCATIONS — For Use When Teaching “Sit” or “Watch” Commands
Be sure that every training location that you use has a “positive experience” associated with it for your dog.
VARY YOUR LOCATIONS EACH DAY —
PROGRESSING FROM FAMILIAR TO UNFAMILIAR.
IDEAS INCLUDE:
- Kitchen Area (near food prep)
- Family Gathering Room
-
“Potty” door - INSIDE the door with it at least
half way open - “Potty” door - OUTSIDE the door with it completely open
-
Outside on your patio, driveway, or deck
(Hard surface preferred) -
Outside in the grass, field, or wooded area
(The most distracting environment!) - Gradually add Distance, Duration, and Distraction to prove your dog’s reliability!
Use a collar and leash if your dog is a flight risk.
I encourage you to relax and be clear, concise, and consistent with your criteria
and find your next “Thank You”…
when your dog is attentively and
willingly following your lead!
Be proactive versus reactive in
developing your relationship with your dog.
Be the best leader: Give your dog a job!