Lay Down

Objective:

• Teach your dog to lie down on command.

Method:

• Begin with your dog in a sitting position in a quiet, distraction-free environment. Ensure they are attentive and focused on you.

• Hold a treat close to their nose to capture their interest, allowing them to sniff it.

• Slowly lower the treat toward the ground, guiding it straight down between their front paws. The goal is to encourage them to follow the treat down.

• As their head lowers to follow the treat, say “Lay Down” in a calm, clear voice.

• Once their front legs touch the ground, immediately mark the behavior (with a click or “Yes!”) and reward them with the treat.

• If your dog struggles to go down, you can slightly move the treat further away from their nose, prompting them to stretch forward, which encourages the down position.

• Practice this several times, gradually reducing the reliance on the treat as a lure and using the verbal command alone, followed by praise when they respond correctly.

Tips & Troubleshooting:

• If they resist lying down, use a lure that they find irresistible or try doing it while they are tired.

• If they just sit again, be patient; repeat the command and mark and reward when they lower their front.

Questions?

Email me at kevin@pawsitivetraining.org your questions and I will help in any way that I can!

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