Teach Your Dog Basic Commands: Sit, Stay, Come

Teaching sit, stay, and come builds real-world manners and safety—whether you’re navigating a busy Toronto sidewalk or a snowy backyard in Winnipeg. Keep sessions short (3–5 minutes), upbeat, and consistent. Use tiny, high-value treats (pea-sized) and a clear marker word like “Yes!” the moment your dog gets it right.

How to Train Sit, Stay, and Come (Step-by-Step)

Sit (foundation for calm behaviour):

Hold a treat at your dog’s nose, then slowly move it up and back.
As the head follows, the bum usually drops. Mark (“Yes!”) and reward immediately.
Add the cue “Sit” only once the motion is reliable.

Stay (impulse control):

Ask for Sit, then show an open palm and say “Stay.”
Start with 1 second, then mark and reward while your dog is still in place.
Increase difficulty in this order: duration → distance → distractions.
If they break position, calmly reset—no scolding.

Come (safety recall):

Begin indoors on a leash or long line. Crouch, say “Come!” once, then reward generously.
Make coming to you a jackpot: treats, praise, a toy—whatever your dog loves.
In Canada, long lines are great for practicing in parks while respecting local leash bylaws.

Quick Training Tips + Common Mistakes

End on a win: stop before your dog loses interest.
Don’t repeat cues: “Come, come, come” teaches ignoring you.
Never punish a recall: if your dog finally comes, reward—even if you’re frustrated.
Practice in real life: ask for Sit before meals, Stay at doors, Come between play bursts.

With daily micro-sessions, these three commands become reliable habits. Focus on clarity, consistency, and rewarding success—and you’ll have a dog that listens anywhere, any season.