Two Dog Training Commands Your Dog Needs to Learn

When we first receive our new puppy or dog from the rescue, we usually want to know what, if any, training the dog knows. Sitting is the first thing a dog learns, so many dogs know this, even puppies. But as we go through life with our dogs, it’s very helpful for humans to be able to direct dogs from one place to another. Wouldn’t it be nice if our dogs could change direction or wait a few minutes while we made our way to the car, around the block, or even home?

My dog ​​trainer, John Spieser, says that the first two commands he teaches a dog or puppy are “wait” and “this way.” Using these two commands, he can make a dog go anywhere he needs them and keep him safe on the go.

The “wait” command is easy to teach your dog. For some reason, waiting feels temporary to a dog, so he’s more willing to wait than have to “stay” somewhere for a long time. “Wait” is good for street corners. Tell your dog to wait at the corner while traffic passes. Or maybe your dog needs to wait while another dog, kids, bike, or whatever passes by. Maybe you want me to wait for his food. Whatever the reason, the dog learns that it is only a temporary situation, soon to be followed by release (which is rewarding) and possibly more positive stimulation.

The command “this way” is better than coming. The command to remember or “come” tends to be abused and dogs may resent it after hearing it frequently. Using “this way” allows the dog to keep moving but in a different direction. If your dog is moving away from you and is not responding to the typical “come” command, try implementing “this way” into your training routine. A dog hears this as an opportunity to indulge and keep moving. It’s much less restrictive on the dog and it’s really easy to teach a dog this.

For more effective communication with your dog, try dog ​​training commands that teach your dog to move with you without being too restrictive. Consider making “wait” and “this way” a major part of your repertoire. The two dog training commands that make the most sense are the ones that give you a lot of versatility with your dog.