The sit command is essential to help keep control over your dog—for his safety and to prevent a variety of problematic behaviors. No one wants their dog to jump on guests, however affectionately, or go running off after a group of dogs while in your company at the park or elsewhere. Even when on a leash the sit command is crucial (example: to keep your dog from pulling you off a curb and into traffic).

Keep in mind that your dog wants to make you happy because it makes him happy. Like a child with a parent, your dog needs to know that you are in control in order to feel secure. This basic command sets the foundation for a happy relationship. You are happy because your dog is obedient, and he is happy and secure because he knows you are in control and are pleased with him.

Training your dog is a type of operant conditioning, based on the knowledge that reinforcing the desired behavior with a reward leads to the fastest learning. The method described below rewards your pup with two of the most powerful positive behavioral reinforcements to a dog—food and praise. Use the following tips to ensure faster success:

• Plan your training before meal-time so he is hungry.
• Choose a bite-size portion of a favorite treat that suits your dog’s specific diet to avoid the distraction of chewing something large.
• Pick a place to begin training that is relatively free of distraction. Inside your house or apartment is usually the best place to start. A park full of interesting things to chase, sniff, and play with is not a good choice for initial training sessions—but should be gradually worked up to so that your dog responds to your command regardless of the surroundings.
• It’s also a good idea to spend a few minutes before training petting or playing with your dog so he’ll be ready to pay attention and want to please you.
• Limit training to five minutes, once or twice a day, so that you command his full attention, keep it fun for both of you, and avoid getting irritated.
• Keep a positive attitude. If your dog senses you are getting irritated, his focus will not be on learning the behavior.
• Use affirmative thinking. If you envision your dog learning the command, your body language will reinforce this positive outcome.
• Experienced dog trainers advise that positive reinforcement is the strongest behavioral tool you can employ. Don’t use punishment for not following the command as this will change the focus of reinforcement. Instead, ignore the failure to follow the command and simply repeat the exercise, always rewarding the desired behavior immediately.

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