If you’ve just welcomed a new dog into your life congrats, Now comes the fun (and sometimes messy) part: training. The good news? You don’t have to be a professional dog trainer to teach your pup the basics. All it takes is a little time, patience, and a whole lot of treats.

These 7 essential commands are the building blocks of a well mannered dog. They help keep your pup safe, make daily life smoother, and strengthen your bond through positive communication.

Sit

Why it’s important: “Sit” is often the very first command dogs learn. It’s simple and lays the foundation for other behaviors.

How to teach it:

• Hold a treat above your dog’s nose.
• Move it slowly back over their head. As they lift their head to follow the treat, their bottom will naturally lower.
• Once they sit, say “Sit,” give the treat, and praise!

Stay

Why it’s important: “Stay” can prevent your dog from running into danger or getting into trouble.

How to teach it:

• Ask your dog to sit.
• Hold your palm out and say “Stay.”
• Take one step back. If they don’t move, reward them.
• Slowly increase distance and time over multiple sessions.

Pro tip: Always release them with a word like “OK” or “Free” so they know it’s safe to move.

Come

Why it’s important: This command could save your dog’s life if they’re off-leash or running toward something dangerous.

How to teach it:

• Start in a quiet area.
• Crouch down, open your arms, and cheerfully say “Come!”
• Reward them big time when they respond make it a party every time they return!

Down

Why it’s important: “Down” helps calm your dog and prevents jumping, begging, or stealing food off the table.

How to teach it:

• Start with your dog in a sitting position.
• Hold a treat near their nose, then move it slowly down to the floor.
• As they follow it down, their body should lower. Once they lie down, say “Down” and reward.

Leave It

Why it’s important: Whether it’s chocolate on the ground or something dangerous, “Leave it” teaches your dog to walk away from things they shouldn’t touch.

How to teach it:

• Hold a treat in both hands.
• Show the treat in one hand and say “Leave it.”
• If they go for it, close your hand. Wait until they back off, then reward with the treat from the other hand.

Drop It

Why it’s important: Dogs love picking things up sometimes things they shouldn’t. “Drop it” helps avoid swallowing hazards or destroying your belongings.

How to teach it:

• During play with a toy, say “Drop it” and offer a treat.
• When they release the toy, give the treat and praise.
• Practice regularly with safe objects.

Wait

Why it’s important: “Wait” is great for stopping your dog from bolting out the door, car, or crate.

How to teach it:

• Ask your dog to “Sit” at a doorway or before putting down their food bowl.
• Hold your hand up and say “Wait.”
• After a few seconds, release them with “OK” or “Go.”
• Slowly increase the duration over time.

Training Tips for Success

• Keep sessions short and fun   5–10 minutes is plenty.
• Be consistent   Use the same words and tone every time.
• Reward good behavior    Treats, praise, and toys work wonders.
• Don’t punish mistakes   Gently guide your pup and try again.

Final Thought

Training your dog doesn’t just teach them manners it builds trust and strengthens your connection. These seven commands are simple, practical, and can truly transform your dog’s behavior (and your peace of mind). With a little patience and a lot of love, you’ll have a well-behaved best friend who listens, learns, and loves every second by your side.