5 Essential Commands Every Dog Should Know

1. Sit

  • Why it’s important: The foundation of all obedience training.

  • How to teach it:

    1. Hold a treat close to your dog’s nose.

    2. Slowly move the treat upward, causing their head to follow and their bottom to lower.

    3. Once they’re sitting, say “Sit,” give the treat, and praise them.

2. Stay

  • Why it’s important: Keeps your dog safe in potentially dangerous situations.

  • How to teach it:

    1. Ask your dog to sit.

    2. Hold your palm out in front of their face and say “Stay.”

    3. Take a step back. If they stay, reward them with a treat and praise.

3. Come

  • Why it’s important: Essential for recall, especially in emergencies.

  • How to teach it:

    1. Put a leash on your dog and get down to their level.

    2. Say “Come” while gently pulling the leash toward you.

    3. When they reach you, reward them with a treat and praise.

4. Leave It

  • Why it’s important: Prevents your dog from picking up dangerous or unwanted items.

  • How to teach it:

    1. Place a treat in your closed hand and let your dog sniff it.

    2. When they stop trying to get it, say “Leave it” and reward them with a different treat.

5. Heel

  • Why it’s important: Makes walks enjoyable and prevents pulling.

  • How to teach it:

    1. Start with your dog on a leash by your side.

    2. Hold a treat in your hand and say “Heel” as you start walking.

    3. Reward them for staying by your side.

5 Healthy Homemade Dog Treat Recipes

1. Peanut Butter & Banana Bites

  • Ingredients: 1 ripe banana, 1/2 cup peanut butter (xylitol-free), 1 cup oats.

  • Instructions: Mash the banana, mix with peanut butter and oats, roll into balls, and bake at 350°F for 10-12 minutes.

2. Sweet Potato Chews

  • Ingredients: 1-2 sweet potatoes.

  • Instructions: Slice into thin strips and bake at 250°F for 2-3 hours.

3. Pumpkin & Oat Cookies

  • Ingredients: 1/2 cup canned pumpkin, 2 cups whole wheat flour, 1/2 cup oats.

  • Instructions: Mix ingredients, roll out dough, cut into shapes, and bake at 350°F for 20-25 minutes.

4. Apple & Carrot Pupcakes

  • Ingredients: 1 grated apple, 1 grated carrot, 1 egg, 1 cup whole wheat flour.

  • Instructions: Mix ingredients, spoon into muffin tins, and bake at 350°F for 20-25 minutes.

5. Frozen Yogurt & Berry Bites

  • Ingredients: 1 cup plain yogurt, 1/2 cup mixed berries.

  • Instructions: Blend yogurt and berries, pour into ice cube trays, and freeze for 2-3 hours.

Final Thoughts

With these 5 essential commands and 5 healthy treat recipes, you’re well on your way to building a stronger bond with your furry friend. Remember, training takes patience and consistency, so celebrate every small victory!

If you found this guide helpful, feel free to forward it to a fellow dog lover or reply to this email with any questions.

Woofs and wags,