3rd Dog Training Lesson: Teaching your Dog To Lay Down

You can teach this command to your dog even if you haven't train him to sit down yet. First, get your dog's attention and show him that you have a treat in your hand (a piece of hotdog will do). Then put the treat in front of your dog's nose. Say the word "Down" in a calm-assertive way and move the treat slowly to the ground. At this point the dog should have followed the treat and put his elbows and chest to the ground. Once the dog's elbows and hocks are on the ground,mark the behavior by giving the dog the treat and pat him on the back for a job well done!

Practice this command 5-6 times a day until the dog fully understands the command.