Training your dog isn’t just about showing off cool tricks, it’s about creating a strong foundation of communication, safety, and mutual respect. Whether you have a brand-new puppy or an older dog needing a skills refresher, teaching essential commands is one of the most important steps you can take for a well-behaved companion.
At Eli Dog Trainer, we focus on practical obedience skills that improve everyday life for both you and your dog. Here’s a breakdown of the 10 commands every dog should know and why they matter.
Related Article: 10 Signs Your Dog Needs Professional Training
1. Sit
Why it matters: “Sit” is the cornerstone of basic obedience. It’s a polite way to get your dog’s attention and stop impulsive behaviours like jumping or running.
When to use it:
- Greeting people
- Before crossing streets
- During grooming or vet visits
Training tip: Use a treat to lure your dog’s nose upward and back, causing them to sit naturally. Reward immediately when they hit the position.
2. Stay
Why it matters: “Stay” teaches patience and impulse control. It can prevent your dog from bolting through doors or running into unsafe areas.
When to use it:
- Opening doors
- Answering the doorbell
- Creating calm during busy times
Training tip: Start by asking for a short stay with one step back. Gradually increase the distance and time as your dog masters the concept.
3. Come
Why it matters: A strong recall could save your dog’s life. Whether they slip out the door or get off-leash at a park, “come” ensures they return to you quickly.
When to use it:
- Park outings
- Emergency situations
- General off-leash control
Training tip: Make “come” rewarding every time. Praise, treats, and excitement should happen as soon as your dog returns. Never punish after they come.
4. Down
Why it matters: “Down” is more than a cute trick. It creates a calming posture that helps settle excitable dogs.
When to use it:
- Restaurant patios
- Busy waiting rooms
- Long grooming sessions
Training tip: Use a treat to lure your dog from a sit into a down by lowering your hand slowly to the ground. Practice in quiet areas first.
5. Leave It
Why it matters: “Leave it” prevents your dog from grabbing dangerous or unwanted items, like garbage, dropped pills, or toxic foods.
When to use it:
- On walks
- Around household hazards
- During meal times
Training tip: Start by covering a treat in your hand. When your dog stops trying to get it, reward with a different treat. Build up to “leave it” on the floor and other objects.
6. Drop It
Why it matters: “Drop it” teaches your dog to release objects willingly, which is critical for safety and avoiding resource guarding.
When to use it:
- Fetch games
- Picking up dangerous items
- Managing multi-dog households
Training tip: Trade up. Offer a high-value treat when asking for a drop. Make it a win for your dog every time.
7. Heel
Why it matters: “Heel” keeps your dog walking politely by your side. It’s especially useful in busy areas where control is critical.
When to use it:
- Sidewalks
- Crowded public places
- During training walks
Training tip: Use frequent rewards at your side to encourage your dog to stay in the heel position. Gradually phase out treats as they learn.
8. Wait
Why it matters: Different from “stay,” “wait” signals a temporary pause until released. It’s great for everyday scenarios where movement will resume soon.
When to use it:
- Exiting the car
- Waiting for meals
- At doorways
Training tip: Pair “wait” with a release word like “okay” to clearly signal when your dog is free to move again.
9. Place
Why it matters: “Place” teaches your dog to go to a designated spot, like a mat or bed, and stay there until released. It’s excellent for managing behaviour indoors.
When to use it:
- During mealtimes
- When guests arrive
- While cooking or working
Training tip: Make the “place” spot appealing with comfy bedding and occasional rewards.
10. Off
Why it matters: “Off” tells your dog to get down from furniture, people, or counters. It teaches respect for boundaries without confusion.
When to use it:
- Preventing jumping
- Keeping off counters or beds
- Managing door greetings
Training tip: Be consistent. “Off” should always mean “get down,” not “stop jumping” (that’s what “sit” is for).
How Long Does It Take to Teach These Commands?
Every dog is different, but with consistent practice, most dogs can learn basic obedience within 8–12 weeks.
Training sessions should be:
- Short (5–15 minutes)
- Frequent (daily if possible)
- Positive and fun
Puppies may take a little longer due to short attention spans, but even adult dogs with no prior training can learn these skills with patience.
At Eli Dog Trainer, we tailor each program to the dog’s age, personality, and learning style, ensuring steady progress without overwhelming the dog.
Why These 10 Commands Matter
Teaching your dog these essentials isn’t about control; it’s about freedom and safety. A well-trained dog enjoys more off-leash adventures, more family outings, and stronger trust from their owner.
Well-behaved dogs are also:
- Safer in public spaces
- Easier to care for at the vet or groomer
- Less likely to develop behavioural issues
- Happier and more confident
Training strengthens the bond between you and your dog, creating a true partnership based on mutual understanding, not dominance or fear.
Related Article: When to Start Dog Training & Why Timing Matters
Why Train with Eli Dog Trainer?
At Eli Dog Trainer, we offer:
- Private sessions: Focused on your dog’s unique needs
- Positive reinforcement methods: Encouraging learning through trust, not fear
- Real-world training: Preparing your dog for home, parks, travel, and public spaces
- Advanced K9 options: For owners interested in protection training
Our philosophy is simple: teach the dog to think, not just obey. When dogs understand what’s expected, they behave naturally and reliably.
Related Article: Why Is Professional Dog Training Important for Every Dog Owner?
Building a Lifelong Bond
Mastering these 10 essential commands sets your dog (and you) up for a lifetime of safety, freedom, and companionship.
It’s never too early or too late to start. Whether you have a rambunctious puppy or an adult dog needing better manners, the right training can transform your relationship.
Ready to get started? Contact Eli Dog Trainer today and give your dog the gift of clear communication, confidence, and success.
