Teach Your Dog to Down
Step-by-step guide to teaching a solid down command from scratch.
Step-by-Step Guide
Start from a Sit
With your dog in a sit, hold a treat at their nose and slowly lower it straight down between their front paws.
Pro Tip: Go slow — if they stand up, you moved the treat too far forward.
Capture the Down
When their elbows touch the ground, mark and reward immediately. Repeat until the motion is smooth.
Pro Tip: Some dogs fold back (sphinx down), others rock forward — both are fine.
Add the Cue
Say 'Down' just before you lure. After many repetitions, the word will predict the motion.
Pro Tip: Keep your voice calm and steady — a harsh tone can make dogs flatten from fear, not understanding.
Duration Work
Once your dog offers the down, start counting 1 second before marking, then 2, then 5. Build up to 30+ seconds.
Pro Tip: Release with an 'Okay!' before they break — set them up for success.
Need Help With This?
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