Teaching your dog down is slightly more difficult than teaching him to sit. This is because sitting is much more comfortable than laying down when they are full of energy or intent on their reward. But with diligence and effort, you should have your dog trained to go to a down position in about three to four days.
What You’ll Need:
- A reward/lure
- A quiet, low distraction area
How to do it:
- Put your dog in a sit.
- Put some kibble in your hand and show your dog. Then move your hand in a straight line to the ground, so your dog follows the kibble. Then move your hand out towards you. Essentially, you should be making the shape of an “L” with your hand, which is called the L Shape Technique. Praise your dog and give him the reward as soon as his chest touches the floor. Repeat this step several times.
- Repeat the L Shape technique. As soon as his chest touches the floor, give the verbal cue “Down”. Praise him and give him the reward. Repeat this step several time as needed.
- Using the L Shape technique, give the verbal cue before you begin the hand signal. Give him praise and the reward as usual. You can always repeat steps 2 and 3 if your dog seems confused.
- Try to phase out the lure as quickly as you can. Use the same L hand signal, but don’t use any kibble to bring him into the position. Give him kibble after he manages the position change. Make sure you don’t rush phasing out the lure. or your dog will become frustrated and confused.
