Once you and your dog master the sit training, you must fallow up and resume training on how to lie down. The goal of this training is to train your dog on how to sit then lie down when the command is given because a well-mannered dog that sits and lies down is a dog that will not jump on strangers or grab at food, treats, and toys.
While holding a treat (dry dog food) in your hand, ask your dog to sit, making sure his/her eyes are on your face and you have all the attention that you need. Hold the treat directly in front of his/her nose and lower your hand to the floor. Say the word “Down” in a kind, but firm tone as you drop your hand. You may have to kneel or crouch close to the floor to make this move effective and to make your dog realize what reaction you are expecting.
At this point, your pet will lower its head and drop its shoulders to follow the treat. If your dog doesn’t, repeat the gesture when you are using your vocal command, and gently push your dog down on its shoulder to show what “Down” means. When your pet lies down, give your dog a treat and tap his/her forehead gently. Make this a consistent part of your training – ask, reward, and praise.
Allow her to get up and then go over the “Sit” and “Down” commands until your dog is responding when you are giving the command. At some point, you can slowly withdraw the treats when your dog begins to react on its own every time you give the command.
Practice this sit and lie down training every time you want to give your dog a treat. Always remember that the effective duration of training is only 15 to 20 minutes.Your next step in training is the “Stay” command.
