Teaching basic dog commands—sit, stay, and come—makes daily life safer and calmer, whether you’re navigating a busy Toronto sidewalk or an off-leash trail in B.C. The key is simple: short sessions, clear cues, and rewards your dog truly wants.

Before You Start: Set Up for Success

Train when your dog is slightly hungry, in a low-distraction space, for 3–5 minutes at a time. Use small, soft treats (pea-sized) and a cheerful marker word like “Yes!” to pinpoint the right moment.

Choose one cue per behaviour (avoid repeating “sit, sit, sit”).
Reward quickly—within 1 second—so your dog connects action to payoff.
End on a win and stop before your dog loses interest.

How to Teach Sit, Stay, and Come

Sit: Hold a treat at your dog’s nose, then slowly lift it up and back. As their head follows, their bum will drop. The instant it hits the floor, say “Yes!” and reward. Add the word “Sit” after you’re getting reliable sits, then phase out the lure.

Stay: Ask for a sit. Show a flat hand and say “Stay.” Take one step back, return immediately, “Yes!” and reward. Increase difficulty in this order: duration, then distance, then distractions. If your dog breaks, reset calmly—no scolding.

Come: Start indoors. Say “Come!” once, then move backward or crouch to invite your dog in. When they reach you, reward with a treat and a few seconds of praise or play. Practice on a long line in parks (common in Canada where leash bylaws apply). Never call your dog for something they hate (like nail trims).

Common Mistakes (and Quick Fixes)

Too many repetitions: Say the cue once; help your dog succeed.
Training in chaos: Level up distractions gradually.
Punishing slow responses: Reward effort; speed comes with reps.

With consistent, upbeat practice, these three commands become your everyday safety net. Aim for a few mini-sessions daily, and you’ll see real progress within a couple of weeks.