How to teach a dog to sit
For first-time dog owners who want a calm sit cue that works at the door and on walks.
IJR · Sep 27, 2026 · 1 min read
When you raise a treat over your dog's nose the nose tips up and the hips drop to the floor. That drop is the sit.
Gather a handful of pea-sized soft treats, clear a quiet corner, and set aside five minutes.
Face the dog square on. The dog looks toward your hand. If it wanders, wait quietly until it returns and looks at you again.
The nose tips up to follow and the hips start to drop. If front paws leave the floor, lower the treat two inches and raise slower.
The dog stays seated and watches the treat. If hips stay up, slide the treat a little farther back over the head and try once more.
Speak the exact word sit. The treat reaches the dog's mouth within one second. Palm faces the ceiling so the dog takes it easily.
Stop while the dog still wants more. If focus fades after three reps, switch to a tastier treat and cut the next round to three reps only.
The most common mistake
Shoving the dog's hips down with your hand is the most common mistake. Keep your hands off the body and let the rising treat drop the hips by itself.
Pro tip
Run the five reps just before mealtime so the treats matter more and the dog stays eager.
Say it every time
sit
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