How do I teach my puppy to sit?

Dogs naturally spend a lot of time in the sitting position, but you want your puppy to sit on command. Let’s try two ways, both starting when your puppy is standing up.

First, hold a tasty treat right over the puppy’s nose. Say his name and the command - “Sparky, sit!” - while moving the treat back toward his tail. As sparky tilts his head to follow the treat, his back end will drop into a seated position. Give him the treat and praise.

Another method is to place one hand on the pup’s chest and one behind his back legs just above the knees. Guide him into the sitting position, while saying his name and the command. Take your hands away and if he sits - for even a split second - reward and praise. Practice this every day.

– Dr. Larry McDaniel, DVM for the “Purina® Animal Instincts” Podcast Series

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