8 Easy Commands to Teach Your Puppy (With Step-by-Step Instructions)
Training your puppy isn’t just about teaching tricks — it’s about building communication, confidence, and trust. And the good news? You don’t need to be a professional dog trainer to teach your pup basic commands that set them up for success.
In fact, the first 8 commands can be easy, fun, and totally doable from home — with a little patience, consistency, and a few high-value treats in your pocket.
🐾 1. Sit
Why it matters: A polite pup who sits on cue is easier to manage at mealtimes, during greetings, and before going out the door.
How to Teach:
Hold a treat close to your puppy’s nose.
Move your hand slowly up — their bottom will naturally lower.
As soon as they sit, say “Sit” and give the treat + praise.
Repeat 5–10 times per session.
🐾 2. Stay
Why it matters: Useful for safety, patience building, and real-world scenarios (like waiting at doors or sidewalks).
How to Teach:
Ask your dog to sit or lie down.
Say “Stay” while holding your palm up like a stop sign.
Take one small step back. If they stay, reward and praise.
Gradually increase the distance and time.
End with a release cue like “Okay!” so they know they’re done.
🐾 3. Down
Why it matters: This command encourages calm behavior and can help with impulse control.
How to Teach:
Start with your pup in a sitting position.
Hold a treat in your hand and slowly lower it to the ground.
Drag it out slightly in front to encourage them to lie down.
Once they lie down, say “Down” and reward.
Practice in short, low-distraction sessions.
🐾 4. Come
Why it matters: A reliable recall can literally be life-saving.
How to Teach:
Start on a leash in a quiet area, preferably indoors to minimize distractions.
Crouch down, say “Come!” in a happy voice, and open your arms.
When your pup comes to you, reward big with praise and treats.
Never scold your dog after they come — always make it positive!
🐾 5. Leave It
Why it matters: Prevents your dog from grabbing unsafe or unwanted things.
How to Teach:
Hold a treat in both hands. Show one hand and say “Leave it.”
When your pup stops trying to get it, reward with the treat from the other hand.
Increase the challenge with treats on the floor, toys, etc.
🐾 6. Wait
Why it matters: Helps your pup pause before dashing out the door or jumping out of the car.
How to Teach:
Ask your dog to sit.
Slowly open a door. If they move, close it gently.
Repeat until they stay seated.
Say “Wait,” then open the door fully. Reward once they pause and hold position.
🐾 7. Touch
Why it matters: A fun and easy trick that builds focus and confidence. Also helpful for leash training and redirection.
How to Teach:
Hold out your palm and say “Touch.”
When your pup sniffs or boops your hand, reward and praise.
Build distance and move your hand around for a fun game!
🐾 8. Place (Go to Bed/Mat)
Why it matters: Helps your pup settle in a specific spot and teaches calm behavior.
How to Teach:
Lure your pup to a mat, towel, or bed.
Say “Place” and reward when they sit or lie down on it.
Use for calm time during meals, guest visits, or at the vet.
Training Tips for Success
✅ Keep sessions short (5–10 mins max)
✅ Always end on a positive note
✅ Use high-value treats your pup LOVES
✅ Practice in different environments
✅ Be patient — progress, not perfection!
Final Woof
Teaching these 8 basic commands is more than obedience — it’s a bonding experience that builds communication and trust between you and your pup.
And the best part? Training is fun! So grab your treats, cue your happy voice, and get ready to celebrate every tiny victory.
💌 Want more step-by-step training tips - check out our post 5 Awesome Tricks to Teach Your Dog (That’ll Impress Everyone)