Teaching the Sit
By Sandra Fikes
I like for the "trainer" to either kneel beside or in front of the puppy
to start this exercise. The use of a favorite treat will make this quite
easy to teach.
First, place one hand gently on the puppy's rear, hold the treat in
the other hand at about eye level and raise it up and back so that the
puppy will lift his nose straight up. They will naturally start to back
up at this point, but your hand on his rump is there to prevent this. Usually
a gentle pressure downward will encourage the puppy to sit. If not, try
cupping your hand under the tail just behind the "stifle
joint". [ The stifle corresponds to our knee and if you've ever had
anyone "clip" you behind the knee, then you know the effect you're looking
for with this maneuver. ]
As you show the treat to the puppy, call him by his name - "Fido" [or
whatever! ] to get his attention, then use the command "SIT". Do not repeat
the term, just let the puppy back into it. People often just keep repeating
"sit, sit, sit, sit......" , when the whole idea is to say it once and
the dog should do it. Remember that persistence/ consistence thing? You
wouldn't want to accidentally give the puppy the idea that he doesn't have
to sit until the fifth time you say the word, would you? :-)
As SOON as the puppy sits, give him the treat and praise, praise, PRAISE!
When practicing doing the sit exercise for young pups, only do it about
3-4 times during a session - or once or twice if he does it well, then
quit for a while. Always end on a positive note with both of you being
winners!
Next the STAY exercise!
These articles are written by Sandra Fikes
of
Kalahari Rhodesian Ridgebacks
KalahariRR@webtv.net |