Border Collies The Sit Command

Everyone has their own ideas as to what is considered the best first command to teach your dog.The first command that I feel should be taught your Border Collie is the "sit" command.To me it just makes more sense to include an action with a command instead of simply saying "no".Your dog will most likely be less confused when you say "sit" and he knows what is expected of him.

Everyone also has their own idea as to what words or phrase should be used in giving that command.My feeling is that you need to decide for yourself what you are comfortable saying out loud in public.If you are more comfortable with saying something like"stop" or "no",then do that.But if you want to say something like "fuzzy Wuzzy" go right ahead.The choice is yours.Your dog won't care.He will learn that when you say "stop" or "no" or even"fuzzy wuzzy" it means do "this".

Start by having your Border pup on his leash.This will make it easier to control him,especially when he decides that your lessons are getting boring.Puppies have the habit of trying to get up and walk away.

As you give your Border Collie the "sit" command gently push down on your dog's rear end or push his legs under him.Praise him lavishly and offer him a treat to reward him for good behaviour.You are obviously trying to attach "sit" with a response and reward.While he is still sitting down give the command again.If he attempts to get up repeat the pushing down and rewarding several times.

Try to make a game of this with the objective of increasing the amount of time that your dog sits.Begin with a few seconds and work up slowly over a few weeks until your Border Collie will sit on command for at least a few minutes.Just remember he is a pup,his attention span is not that great at this point!

Once he has successfully accomplished the task of "sit" for the specified time,give him a release command.Something like "ok" or whatever you like and feel comfortable with along with a treat to let him know he is done.

Keep practicing as much as you can and always try for the same time everyday.Repetition and consistency are what is needed to teach and reinforce any lesson.Try to make a game out of whatever you do since Borders like to have fun!