The 5 Essential Commands Every Dog Should Know (and How to Teach Them!)
- loopypawstowcester
- Jul 8, 2025
- 3 min read
At Loopypaws Dog Training, we believe a well-trained dog is a happy dog—and a happy family! Whether you’ve got a bouncy puppy or a wise old rescue, mastering the basics makes life smoother, safer, and way more fun. Here are the five must-have commands every dog should know, plus our favourite tips for teaching them!
1. Sit
Why it’s essential: “Sit” is the doggy equivalent of “please.” It’s the foundation for good manners, helps your dog focus, and is a lifesaver in busy situations (think: greeting guests or waiting at the road side)
How to teach it
Hold a treat above your dog’s nose and slowly move it back over their head.
As their nose follows, their bottom will naturally lower.
The moment their bum hits the floor, say “Sit!” and reward them.
Practice in different places and with distractions for a rock-solid sit.
Golden retriever in a sit- Otto taken by loopypaws
2. Down
Why it’s essential: “Down” helps your dog settle, stay calm, and avoid jumping up. It’s also a great starting point for teaching “stay” and other advanced tricks
How to teach it:
Start with your dog in a sit.
Hold a treat near their nose, then slowly lower it to the ground between their paws.
As they follow, their body will sink down.
As soon as they’re lying down, say “Down!” and reward.
Practice on different surfaces for extra confidence.
3. Come (Recall)
Why it’s essential: A reliable recall is the ultimate safety command. Whether you’re at the park or in your garden, “come” can save your dog from trouble and give you peace of mind
How to teach it:
Start in a quiet space. Crouch down, open your arms, and say your dog’s name followed by “Come!”
When they run to you, shower them with praise and treats.
Make it a game—call your dog from room to room, or play hide and seek.
Never call your dog for something they dislike (like bath time!)—keep it positive.
Puppy practicing recall- Luna taken by loopypaws
4. Stay
Why it’s essential: “Stay” keeps your dog safe and under control when you need them to pause—at doors, on walks, or when visitors arrive
How to teach it:
Ask your dog to “Sit” or “Down.”
Hold your hand up like a stop sign and say “Stay.”
Take one small step back, then return and reward if they hold position.
Gradually increase distance and duration. Release with a cheerful “Okay!”
Remember: patience and short sessions are key.
5. Leave It
Why it’s essential: “Leave it” can prevent your dog from grabbing something dangerous or unwanted—like dropped food, rubbish, or a squirrel on your walk
How to teach it:
Place a treat in your closed hand and show it to your dog.
When they sniff, lick, or paw, calmly say “Leave it.”
Wait for them to back off or look away, then reward with a treat from your other hand.
Practice with different objects and in real-life situations for best results.
Loopypaws Pro Tips for Success
Keep training sessions short, fun, and packed with rewards!
Practice in lots of places—your dog needs to know these commands everywhere, not just at home.
Use positive reinforcement—cheers, treats, and play make learning a blast.
Be patient. Every dog learns at their own pace (and even trainers’ dogs have “off” days!).
Master these five commands and you’ll have a polite, safe, and happy companion ready for anything. Need help? The Loopypaws Dog Training team is always here to cheer you on—one wag at a time! We always have group classes, workshops or one to one training to help you on this journey.
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