[English 101] DOG TRAINING - Basic commands and reward-based learning

Teaching Material

Jump into a collection of core dog training commands and techniques rooted in reward-based methods. These practical terms will help you set clear boundaries, shape positive behaviors, and foster a strong canine-human bond.

Tell your puppy to sit before giving a treat.

Sit (verb) - A basic command telling a dog to place its hindquarters on the ground.
Use ‘sit’ as an easy starter command. Reward promptly when the dog’s bottom touches the floor, building a clear connection between action and reward. It's foundational for good manners.
A friend might say, “My dog learned to sit in just two days with treats.”
Take a seat - Less common, but can be used interchangeably with ‘sit.’ Consistency of wording is crucial, so pick one phrase and stick with it.

Ask your dog to stay until you release them with a cue.

Stay (verb) - A directive for the dog to remain in its current position without moving.
Use ‘stay’ to encourage stillness. Reinforce short durations first, gradually increasing time. Reward the dog only if it doesn’t break position, making the command reliable.
A neighbor might ask, “How do I get my dog to stay while I open the door?”

Practice ‘come’ indoors, then move outside with minimal distractions.

Come (verb) - A recall command instructing the dog to approach you immediately.
Use ‘come’ consistently for recall. Reward heavily and never scold upon return— you want the dog to associate coming to you with positive outcomes, not punishment.
A friend might say, “If I can’t get my dog to come, I use a higher-value treat.”
Here - Shorter, but just as effective. Be consistent with whichever word you choose so your dog doesn’t get confused.

Cue ‘down’ so your dog rests on the floor calmly.

Down (verb) - Directs the dog to lower its chest and stomach to the ground, often more relaxed than ‘sit.’
Use ‘down’ for calm submission. Lure the dog’s nose toward the ground with a treat initially. Ensure consistent timing so your dog links the posture to the command and reward.
A friend might ask, “Did your puppy learn ‘down’ easily, or does it resist lying flat?”

He trained his Labrador to heel during walks around the block.

Heel (verb) - Instructs the dog to walk close by your side without pulling on the leash.
Use ‘heel’ for controlled walking, especially in busy areas. Reward the dog for staying aligned with your leg. Keep sessions brief until the dog masters consistent, relaxed heeling.
Someone might say, “Using a short leash helps teach my dog to heel near my left leg.”

Say ‘off’ when the dog jumps on the couch without permission.

Off (interjection) - Tells the dog to remove itself from furniture, people, or objects it’s jumping on.
Use ‘off’ to politely redirect from jumping or climbing. Reinforce it with a firm, calm tone. Reward the dog as soon as all paws are back on the floor to reinforce the correct behavior.
A friend might mention, “I taught ‘off’ to stop my puppy from hopping on guests.”

Use ‘leave it’ when your dog sniffs discarded food on the street.

Leave it (verb phrase) - A command discouraging the dog from picking up or investigating an object of interest.
Use ‘leave it’ to prevent your dog from grabbing hazardous or unwanted items. Immediately reward ignoring the object to maintain focus. Consistent practice fosters impulse control.
A neighbor might say, “I say ‘leave it’ around trash or dropped snacks during walks.”

If your dog grabs a sock, calmly say ‘drop it’ and offer a treat exchange.

Drop it (verb phrase) - Instructs the dog to release whatever it's holding in its mouth.
Use ‘drop it’ to safely remove items from your dog’s mouth without a tug-of-war. Pair with high-value treats to reinforce letting go. Over time, your dog learns to relinquish objects easily.
A friend might comment, “My dog actually learned ‘drop it’ using squeaky toys as practice.”

Tell your dog ‘release’ when it can break the stay position.

Release (verb) - A cue that frees the dog from a previously given command (like ‘sit’ or ‘stay’).
Use ‘release’ to clearly end any position-based command. This prevents confusion, letting the dog know it’s free to move. Pair with praise or a treat to keep the session positive.
A trainer might say, “I say ‘release’ after a successful sit, so the dog knows it’s done.”
Free - Short and direct—just ensure you use it consistently as the universal release word.

Each time the puppy listens to ‘sit,’ say ‘good dog’ to reinforce positivity.

Good dog (phrase) - An affectionate phrase praising the dog’s correct behavior.
Use ‘good dog’ to provide warmth and verbal approval. Dogs thrive on upbeat tones, so coupling it with a happy voice can heighten the reward-based experience.
A friend might say, “My dog’s tail wags wildly when I say ‘good dog.’”

When the dog sits, say ‘yes’ immediately, then give a treat.

Yes (interjection) - A marker word used at the instant the dog performs the right action, indicating a reward is coming.
Use ‘yes’ to pinpoint correct behavior. The consistent, clear signal fosters quick learning. Follow it up with a treat or praise so the dog associates ‘yes’ with a positive outcome.
A trainer might advise, “Use ‘yes’ to mark the exact moment your dog does well.”
Click - Use a clicker if you prefer a consistent, distinct sound over verbal markers. Both methods are valid.

If the dog chews wires, you can say ‘no’ firmly and redirect.

No (interjection) - A short rebuke indicating the dog’s action is unacceptable; best used sparingly for clarity.
Use ‘no’ carefully; pairing it with a redirection to acceptable behavior is vital. Too much negativity can confuse a dog, so rely mainly on positive commands and guidance.
A friend might say, “I try not to overuse ‘no,’ or it loses impact.”

She uses a clicker to mark perfect timing during training sessions.

Clicker (noun) - A small device producing a clicking sound, used as a marker signal for correct behavior.
Use ‘clicker’ for precise communication, bridging the instant a correct action happens and the reward. Keep sessions short, and always follow the click with a treat or praise.
A dog enthusiast might say, “My pup’s tail wags whenever she hears the clicker.”

Carry treats in your pocket so you can immediately reward good actions.

Treat (noun) - A small piece of food offered as a reward for desired behavior.
Use ‘treat’ as a primary motivator in reward-based learning. Choose healthy, small morsels so you can reward frequently without overfeeding.
A friend says, “My dog is super motivated by tasty treats—especially cheese bits.”

Praise your dog enthusiastically when it follows your command.

Praise (noun) - Verbal or physical affirmation (e.g., ‘good job,’ patting) reinforcing the dog’s correct behavior.
Use ‘praise’ consistently alongside or instead of treats. Positive words, a cheerful tone, and gentle strokes reinforce the bond. It’s essential for dogs that aren’t food-driven.
A coworker might mention, “My dog responds well to praise, even more than treats sometimes.”

Using positive reinforcement, her puppy quickly mastered basic commands.

Positive reinforcement (noun phrase) - A training strategy adding something pleasant (treats, praise) to boost good behavior frequency.
Use ‘positive reinforcement’ to encourage willingness in your dog. Reward promptly and consistently for correct actions, forging a trusting, enthusiastic training environment.
A friend states, “I rely on positive reinforcement; it makes training fun.”

He slightly loosened the collar pressure once the dog walked calmly, which was negative reinforcement.

Negative reinforcement (noun phrase) - Removing an unpleasant stimulus when the dog performs the desired behavior—less common in modern dog training.
Use ‘negative reinforcement’ carefully. Modern, reward-based approaches prefer adding good stimuli over removing unpleasant ones. Gentle forms can help but require caution to avoid confusion.
A trainer might say, “I mostly do positive methods, but mild negative reinforcement can be subtle—like easing tension on the leash.”

They used repetition daily to teach a solid recall.

Repetition (noun) - Repeated practice of a command or action, helping solidify a dog’s learning.
Use ‘repetition’ for reinforcing memory. Short, frequent sessions beat long, occasional ones. The dog gradually forms a strong association between the cue and the behavior.
A friend might remark, “Repetition is key; my dog needed dozens of tries to perfect ‘stay.’”

Consistency in commands helps a dog learn quickly and avoid confusion.

Consistency (noun) - Providing the same cues, rewards, and expectations so the dog understands stable rules.
Use ‘consistency’ to unify your approach. If you’re inconsistent with words or timing, dogs get mixed signals. Ensure all family members follow the same rules and cues.
A trainer might say, “Everyone in the household must have consistency, using the same word for each command.”

Conduct short sessions of about five minutes to keep the pup eager and alert.

Short sessions (adjective + noun) - Brief training periods that keep the dog engaged without mental fatigue.
Use ‘short sessions’ to maintain enthusiasm. Overly long training can lead to restlessness. Quick bursts of learning repeated throughout the day yield better retention.
A friend might say, “My dog tunes out after ten minutes, so short sessions work better.”

Perfect timing is vital—praise within seconds of the correct behavior.

Timing (noun) - The precision in which you reward or correct the dog, crucial for clear associations.
Use ‘timing’ to ensure immediate feedback. Dogs live in the moment, so a delayed reward or correction can confuse them. Practice marking success right when it happens.
A trainer might emphasize, “Good timing can cut training time in half.”

He uses reward-based training, giving small biscuits to shape each correct move.

Reward-based training (adjective phrase) - A method focusing on treats, praise, or toys to reinforce desired actions.
Use ‘reward-based training’ for a positive environment, building trust and motivation in your dog. Pair consistent commands with timely rewards, gradually reducing treats as the dog masters the skill.
A neighbor might say, “Punishments didn’t help, but reward-based training changed everything.”

The trainer taught her to use ‘good’ as a marker word whenever the dog sat on cue.

Marker word (noun phrase) - A short, distinct sound or word (e.g., ‘yes’) signaling to the dog it performed correctly.
Use ‘marker word’ for clarity if you don’t use a clicker. Must be consistent and used at the precise second the dog does right, ensuring it knows what it’s being rewarded for.
A friend might say, “I replaced a clicker with a marker word; it’s simpler for me.”

Keep treats in a treat pouch so you can reward instantly.

Treat pouch (noun phrase) - A small bag worn on the waist to hold treats for quick access during training.
Use ‘treat pouch’ for convenience and timely rewards. Prevents fumbling in pockets, keeping training sessions smooth and consistent. Always refill with fresh, appealing treats.
A fellow dog owner might say, “The treat pouch speeds up my reaction time with positive reinforcement.”

She taught the dog to follow the target stick for complex commands.

Target stick (noun phrase) - A small rod with a tip for the dog to touch, guiding positions or tricks.
Use ‘target stick’ to shape movement-based tasks. Dogs learn to nose-touch it, making positioning more precise. Reward each correct contact until your dog reliably follows the stick.
A trainer might say, “A target stick is awesome for teaching spins or weaving around objects.”

Proper crate training gives the dog a secure den and aids in housebreaking.

Crate training (noun phrase) - Familiarizing a dog to a kennel or crate as a safe, comfortable resting place.
Use ‘crate training’ for structure and safety. Gradually build positive associations with the crate using treats and short intervals. Never use the crate as punishment, maintaining a reassuring space.
A friend might say, “I used crate training to prevent nighttime accidents and teething damage.”

Consistent routines and praise make housebreaking smoother.

Housebreaking (noun) - Teaching a dog to relieve itself outdoors or in a designated area, not indoors.
Use ‘housebreaking’ to emphasize a stable schedule for feeding, walks, and potty breaks. Reward outdoors success instantly, reinforcing correct bathroom habits from an early stage.
A neighbor might say, “Housebreaking is tough at first but becomes routine after a few weeks.”

Early socialization prevents many fear-based issues later on.

Socialization (noun) - Exposing dogs to various people, environments, and animals to develop confident, calm behavior.
Use ‘socialization’ to ensure your dog becomes well-adjusted. Positive experiences with strangers, children, noises, or new settings help prevent reactivity or aggression as they mature.
A friend might note, “Puppy socialization classes made my dog more friendly around visitors.”

Desensitization with vacuum noise reduced his dog’s panic reactions.

Desensitization (noun) - Gradual exposure to a feared or disliked stimulus until the dog is comfortable with it.
Use ‘desensitization’ if your dog shows fear or anxiety. Introduce the scary item slowly at a low intensity, pairing it with treats or praise, so the dog learns it’s harmless.
A neighbor might say, “We used desensitization so fireworks no longer freak out our pup.”

Work on impulse control so your dog can wait politely before meals.

Impulse control (noun phrase) - Training the dog to resist urges like grabbing food, dashing out doors, or barking impulsively.
Use ‘impulse control’ to handle overexcitement. Practice small waits—like holding a treat near the dog’s nose but only rewarding if it doesn’t lunge. Improves overall discipline.
A friend might mention, “Impulse control helps my beagle not snatch treats from guests.”

Say ‘focus’ so your dog locks eyes with you instead of distractions.

Focus (noun/verb) - A command prompting the dog to give you eye contact and full attention.
Use ‘focus’ to keep your dog’s attention. Lure eyes to you using a treat near your face, then mark and reward once it looks at you. Great for preventing reactivity or wandering focus.
A trainer might say, “Focus is crucial when teaching advanced skills in busy places.”

When your dog barks, calmly say ‘quiet’ and reward once it hushes.

Quiet (adjective) - A command urging the dog to stop barking or whining.
Use ‘quiet’ to reduce excessive barking. Wait for a pause in the barking, then quickly reward. Avoid yelling, which could excite the dog further. Patience and calmness are key.
Someone might say, “I taught ‘quiet’ by first letting my dog bark once, then rewarding silence.”

Ask your dog to wait at the doorway before going outside.

Wait (verb) - Tells the dog to pause briefly, similar to ‘stay’ but often used in everyday contexts like doorways or feeding times.
Use ‘wait’ to build polite manners. The difference from ‘stay’ is usually shorter and more casual. Reward or release quickly so it learns short, controlled pauses.
A friend says, “I use ‘wait’ so my golden retriever doesn’t bolt out of the car.”

Grab a ball, say ‘fetch,’ and encourage your dog to chase and return it.

Fetch (verb) - A playful command to retrieve a thrown object and bring it back.
Use ‘fetch’ for exercise and mental stimulation. Start short distances, reward returns. If the dog drops it halfway, guide it gently back, praising any progress in retrieving fully.
A buddy might laugh, “My dog loves fetch—he’d chase that tennis ball forever!”

Hold out the toy, say ‘take it,’ then let your dog grab it softly.

Take it (verb phrase) - Cue instructing the dog to gently take an offered object in its mouth.
Use ‘take it’ to teach controlled object acceptance. Great for giving toys, treats, or retrieving practice. Combine with ‘drop it’ for a complete pick-up/hand-over cycle.
A trainer might say, “For retrieving, start with ‘take it’ so the dog understands to pick the item from your hand.”

Say ‘give’ and place your palm out so the dog can release the ball into your hand.

Give (verb) - A command for the dog to place the object it’s holding into your hand, similar to ‘drop it’ but more direct hand handover.
Use ‘give’ if you prefer your dog to place items gently in your hand, not just drop them on the floor. Reward each successful handover, ensuring no biting or tugging occurs.
A friend might say, “I use ‘give’ instead of ‘drop it’ when I want a neat hand delivery.”

Combine a hand signal, like a raised palm, with ‘stay’ to reinforce the action visually.

Hand signal (noun phrase) - A visual cue made by your arm or hand, reinforcing or replacing verbal commands.
Use ‘hand signal’ if your dog responds better to visual cues or if you want silent commands. Pair each with a spoken command initially; eventually, you can drop the voice if desired.
A trainer might note, “Dogs are very responsive to clear hand signals.”

Ensure each verbal cue is distinct, like ‘down’ vs. ‘off,’ to avoid confusion.

Verbal cue (noun phrase) - A spoken word or short phrase indicating a desired behavior, e.g., ‘sit,’ ‘stay.’
Use ‘verbal cue’ to label the spoken part of your communication. Consistency is crucial—multiple words for the same action can confuse. Keep them short, clear, and always the same tone.
A friend might mention, “I keep my verbal cues simple: one-syllable commands are easier for dogs.”

He used behavior shaping to teach the dog to open a cabinet door in small steps.

Behavior shaping (noun phrase) - Gradually reinforcing successive approximations of a desired behavior until the final action is formed.
Use ‘behavior shaping’ for multi-step or advanced tasks. Reward slight progress, building up to the full behavior. Helps dogs learn complicated moves by layering each small success.
A trainer might say, “Shaping complex tricks is simpler if you break them down incrementally.”

She used capturing when the dog lay down by itself, then praised with a treat.

Capturing (noun/verb) - Waiting until the dog naturally performs a desired action, then marking and rewarding to strengthen it.
Use ‘capturing’ for behaviors your dog does naturally, like sitting or yawning. By marking the action as it occurs, you encourage your dog to repeat it on command later.
A fellow owner might say, “Capturing spontaneous sits taught my puppy to sit more often.”

For ‘down,’ she practiced luring the nose downward with a treat until the dog lay flat.

Luring (noun/verb) - Using a treat or object to guide the dog’s body into a position or movement, reinforcing the final pose.
Use ‘luring’ as an easy introduction to new positions. Keep the lure close to the dog’s nose, moving slowly to avoid confusion. Once the behavior is consistent, reduce reliance on the visible treat.
A trainer explains, “Luring works wonders, but fade out the treat quickly once the dog gets it.”

When the dog nailed a flawless recall, she gave a jackpot reward of several treats at once.

Jackpot reward (noun phrase) - A larger or extra special treat given for a particularly great response or a training breakthrough.
Use ‘jackpot reward’ to amplify excitement when your dog does extremely well. It cements the dog’s memory that performing the behavior yields fantastic results, fueling motivation for next time.
A friend might say, “I reserve jackpot rewards for milestone achievements—makes them memorable.”

Save high-value treats for challenging tasks, like recall at the dog park.

High-value treat (adjective phrase) - An especially enticing snack (e.g., cooked chicken, cheese) used for tough training situations or major distractions.
Use ‘high-value treat’ to outcompete distractions or to reward new or hard tasks. Rotate these special goodies to keep them fresh and avoid your dog losing interest.
A coworker says, “My dog goes crazy for hot dog slices— the perfect high-value treat.”

Working on leash manners helps make daily walks relaxed and safe.

Leash manners (noun phrase) - Teaching the dog to walk calmly on a leash without pulling or constant tension.
Use ‘leash manners’ for a pleasant walking experience. Reward any slack in the leash, correct gentle tugs with a stop-or-change direction approach. Consistency fosters a mindful walking routine.
A friend might say, “Start leash manners early to prevent yanking down the sidewalk.”

He praised the dog every time it maintained loose leash walking.

Loose leash walking (adjective + verb) - A style of walking where the leash remains slack, indicating the dog isn’t pulling or lagging.
Use ‘loose leash walking’ to prevent pulling. Each time the leash gets taut, stop and wait or switch direction. Reward the dog for returning to your side to keep the leash slack.
A neighbor might say, “Loose leash walking is the difference between a fun stroll and a stressful drag.”

A strong recall can save your dog from danger, so practice often.

Recall (noun) - The dog's response to a ‘come’ command, returning promptly to the handler.
Use ‘recall’ as a life-saving skill. Reinforce success heavily: when your dog comes, reward big. Avoid scolding upon return, even if it took a while, to keep returning positive.
A trainer notes, “Without a solid recall, letting your dog off-leash is risky.”

They practiced distance training so the dog can sit from across the yard.

Distance training (noun phrase) - Teaching commands to be followed even when the dog is far away from the handler.
Use ‘distance training’ once basic commands are strong up close. Increase range gradually. Keep a long line or safe environment while you confirm reliability before going fully off-leash.
A friend says, “Distance training is handy if your pup roams off-leash at the park.”

Maintain calm, upright handler posture— slouching or looming can confuse the dog.

Handler posture (noun phrase) - The body language and stance of the trainer, which can influence the dog’s response.
Use ‘handler posture’ to convey clear cues. Stand upright, face your dog, keep arms relaxed. Mixed signals in body language can hamper communication, so remain consistent.
A trainer might say, “My dog reacts better when my handler posture is confident yet non-threatening.”

High engagement keeps the dog eager to learn and respond.

Engagement (noun) - The dog’s focus and enthusiasm in training, often encouraged with interactive praise or movement.
Use ‘engagement’ to measure your dog’s readiness to learn. Incorporate short play or use special treats to build excitement. A more engaged dog retains lessons more effectively.
A friend says, “I do quick games to increase my puppy’s engagement before formal commands.”

If your dog shows treat refusal, consider switching to a toy reward or adjusting the environment.

Treat refusal (noun phrase) - A scenario where a dog declines or loses interest in treats, possibly indicating stress or lack of food motivation.
Use ‘treat refusal’ as a signal to re-evaluate training pace or environment. Some dogs prefer praise, toys, or need a calmer space. Don’t force treats; adapt your approach to keep positivity.
A trainer might say, “My dog’s treat refusal meant she was too anxious to eat.”

Frequent short sessions and playful interactions increase your bonding.

Bonding (noun/verb) - Developing a close, trusting relationship with your dog through positive interaction and consistency.
Use ‘bonding’ as the emotional foundation of training. Strengthen it with gentle handling, consistent responses, shared activities, and reliable leadership to form a deeper mutual trust.
A neighbor might say, “Spending 15 minutes of daily training boosted my bonding with Rex.”

Maintain calm energy during sessions to prevent your dog from getting overexcited.

Calm energy (noun phrase) - A relaxed yet confident demeanor you project, helping the dog remain composed.
Use ‘calm energy’ to help soothe the dog and reduce anxious or hyper states. Dogs read your tone and body language, so a stable presence encourages them to mirror that calmness.
A trainer explains, “Hectic body language conflicts with calm energy, so act composed.”

Read your dog’s body language— ears back might signal nervousness.

Body language (noun phrase) - Nonverbal signals from both dog and trainer that communicate emotional state or intentions.
Use ‘body language’ reading to gauge your dog’s comfort. Lowered ears, tucked tail, yawning can hint at stress. Adjust training speed or environment for better progress.
A friend might mention, “My dog’s wagging tail can also mean anxiety, so I watch the full body language.”

He read about pack leadership, but switched to a kinder approach upon learning new science.

Pack leadership (noun phrase) - An outdated idea focusing on dominance; modern training emphasizes guidance, not force. Some still mention it meaning structured leadership, not intimidation.
Use ‘pack leadership’ carefully. Current training generally prefers positive guidance over dominance-based approaches. Provide structure, routine, and confidence, but avoid intimidation or harsh corrections.
A colleague says, “Don’t confuse pack leadership with fear-based methods— clarity and consistency matter more.”
Guidance - Modern approaches value supportive leadership more than the old dominance concept.

Through muzzle training, she avoided fear when the dog needed a vet check.

Muzzle training (noun phrase) - Conditioning a dog to wear a muzzle comfortably for safety or vet visits, using positive reinforcement.
Use ‘muzzle training’ to responsibly handle dogs who might snap or in stressful contexts. Introduce the muzzle slowly, pairing it with treats and calm praise, so it becomes routine and not threatening.
A friend might say, “We used peanut butter to ease muzzle training so it felt less scary.”

He did counterconditioning for thunderstorms, offering treats each time thunder rumbled.

Counterconditioning (noun) - Changing a dog’s emotional response from negative to positive by pairing a feared stimulus with something pleasant.
Use ‘counterconditioning’ to tackle strong fears. Gradually pair the scary trigger with high-value rewards so the dog re-associates it with good experiences. Consistency is essential for lasting change.
A neighbor says, “My dog overcame fireworks anxiety after consistent counterconditioning.”

Her reward marker is ‘yes,’ used every time the dog sits on cue.

Reward marker (noun phrase) - A specific signal (word or click) telling the dog it just did something correct and a reward follows.
Use ‘reward marker’ for timely feedback. Precisely mark the second your dog achieves the correct action. Then follow with a treat or praise to reinforce that moment of success.
A trainer might say, “A reward marker speeds up learning by clarifying what behavior earned the treat.”

Dog training often applies operant conditioning with treats as positive reinforcement.

Operant conditioning (noun phrase) - Learning based on consequences: behaviors followed by rewards increase; those without reinforcement lessen.
Use ‘operant conditioning’ to understand how dogs learn from immediate outcomes. Reward desired actions, ignore or redirect unwanted ones, shaping steady improvements in behavior.
A friend might say, “Operant conditioning underlies clicker training’s success.”

With classical conditioning, the click predicts a treat, so the dog’s excitement builds upon hearing it.

Classical conditioning (noun phrase) - Associating a neutral stimulus (e.g., clicker sound) with something positive (like food), so it becomes meaningful.
Use ‘classical conditioning’ to build positive emotional responses. By pairing a new cue (sound, word) with an already enjoyable outcome (treat), dogs learn to anticipate rewards quickly.
A trainer says, “Classical conditioning turned the word ‘yes’ into a happy signal for my pup.”

They used a long line at the park to practice come in a bigger space safely.

Long line (noun phrase) - A long leash (10–30+ feet) allowing the dog more freedom while still under control during recall or distance training.
Use ‘long line’ for teaching recall or exploring moderate distance without losing control. Reward the dog returning to you. Gradually reduce dependence on the line as reliability grows.
A friend might say, “The long line helps my dog roam a bit but keeps everyone secure.”

If the dog seems overexcited, wait until it settles before resuming training.

Overexcited (adjective) - A state where the dog is too enthusiastic or hyper, possibly unable to focus on commands.
Use ‘overexcited’ to describe a dog that can’t calm down. Pause training if it can’t concentrate. Provide a short break or redirect to something calm, then re-engage once the dog is more composed.
A colleague might say, “My puppy gets overexcited meeting new dogs and forgets commands.”

She addressed resource guarding by trading up: offering a better treat in exchange for the guarded item.

Resource guarding (noun phrase) - Protective or aggressive behavior over food, toys, or spaces that the dog perceives as valuable.
Use ‘resource guarding’ to highlight protective instincts. Practice gentle exchanges (like ‘drop it’) and reward calm relinquishing. Avoid forcibly removing items; build trust that giving things up leads to good outcomes.
A trainer might say, “Manage resource guarding early to prevent bites or fights.”

He taught a focus command so the dog would watch him before crossing streets.

Focus command (noun phrase) - Any directive (like ‘look at me’) that instructs the dog to give undivided attention to the handler.
Use ‘focus command’ for eye contact on you, ignoring external stimuli. Reward the dog for sustained attention. Particularly helpful in busy or potentially stressful environments to maintain control.
A friend might mention, “Focus commands reduce distractions during walks.”

After five minutes of intense work, say ‘take a break’ and let the dog roam.

Take a break (phrase) - An indication that the dog can pause training, sniff around, or do its own thing momentarily.
Use ‘take a break’ to provide mental rest. Overly long sessions can cause frustration. A short free period recharges your dog’s willingness, ensuring the next training block remains productive.
A trainer might say, “Frequent ‘take a break’ sessions keep the dog from burning out.”

Clicker training taught her puppy to spin in just a week.

Clicker training (noun phrase) - A method using a click sound to mark the moment the dog performs correctly, followed by a reward.
Use ‘clicker training’ for precise timing. Pair each click with a reward. Dogs quickly link the click to a positive outcome, accelerating learning of each new action or trick.
A friend remarks, “The clarity of clicker training helps my dog learn tricks faster.”

She switched to a variable reinforcement schedule after the dog mastered ‘sit.’

Reinforcement schedule (noun phrase) - How often and under what conditions a dog gets rewarded for a correct behavior (continuous vs. partial).
Use ‘reinforcement schedule’ strategically. Start with continuous reinforcement for new skills, then shift to partial or variable once the dog understands, preventing reliance on constant treats.
A fellow owner says, “Adjust your reinforcement schedule to keep them guessing and eager.”

He used continuous reinforcement for the first week of teaching ‘lie down.’

Continuous reinforcement (noun phrase) - Rewarding every single correct response, typically used in early training stages.
Use ‘continuous reinforcement’ to form a new skill fast. Once consistent, gradually reduce to partial reinforcement or use praise instead of treats each time to maintain motivation.
A friend might say, “When introducing a trick, continuous reinforcement cements the behavior quickly.”

After consistent success, partial reinforcement keeps the dog motivated and guessing.

Partial reinforcement (noun phrase) - Only rewarding some correct responses, increasing persistence even without guaranteed treat each time.
Use ‘partial reinforcement’ to maintain an established behavior. Mix up which successful attempts get a treat. This unpredictability fosters stronger, long-lasting habits and attentiveness.
A coworker might say, “My dog tries even harder under partial reinforcement, hoping each time is a reward.”

She’s fading lures, so now the dog sits using just a verbal cue, no treat in hand.

Fading lures (verb phrase) - Gradually removing the visible treat or hand guidance once the dog understands the command.
Use ‘fading lures’ to ensure your dog isn’t reliant on seeing treats before obeying. Once it reliably follows the motion or cue, reward after the action instead of showing the treat upfront.
A trainer might say, “Don’t keep bribing forever; start fading lures as soon as possible.”

He created a behavior chain: ‘sit,’ then ‘down,’ then ‘roll over,’ all seamlessly.

Behavior chain (noun phrase) - A sequence of actions performed one after another under one cue or multiple cues in order.
Use ‘behavior chain’ for advanced routines. Train each step individually, ensuring the dog is confident, then link them in sequence, rewarding at the end or between steps as needed.
A friend might say, “My dog does a neat behavior chain of picking up toys then placing them in a bin.”

Her proactive approach included social exposure for the puppy before fear developed.

Proactive approach (adjective phrase) - Addressing potential issues early (like reactivity) by training coping skills before problems arise.
Use ‘proactive approach’ to shape calm, resilient dogs. Introduce new people, sounds, or objects gently before they become triggers. Being ahead of issues fosters confidence and well-adjusted behavior.
A trainer might say, “A proactive approach to noise sensitivity helps puppies avoid future phobias.”

He barked out of barrier frustration each time the neighbor’s dog passed by.

Barrier frustration (noun phrase) - Stress or excitement a dog feels when restricted by a fence, leash, or crate from reaching something interesting.
Use ‘barrier frustration’ to recognize reactivity at fences or on leash. Provide structured interactions, mental stimulation, and teach the dog calmer coping behaviors to alleviate blocked impulses.
A friend might say, “We reduced barrier frustration with more controlled meet-and-greets.”

Whenever the dog lies quietly, she uses gentle praise to reinforce calm.

Reinforce calm (verb phrase) - Actively rewarding relaxed, quiet behavior instead of only training formal commands.
Use ‘reinforce calm’ for everyday downtime. Offer subtle praise or a treat for lying politely or not reacting. Over time, your dog learns that being still and composed pays off.
A coworker notes, “We often forget to reinforce calm, but it’s essential for a well-mannered dog.”

If the dog demands attention by whining, ignoring it becomes a negative punisher for that behavior.

Negative punisher (noun phrase) - Removing something pleasant (like attention) to reduce an unwanted behavior (part of four operant conditioning quadrants).
Use ‘negative punisher’ thoughtfully to reduce mild unwanted acts by withholding a reward (e.g., ignoring attention-seeking). Don’t overuse; combine it with reward-based approaches to encourage better alternatives.
A trainer might clarify, “Just walking away can function as a negative punisher for jumping up.”

Some people scold (a positive punisher), but it can damage trust or cause fear.

Positive punisher (noun phrase) - Adding an unpleasant stimulus to reduce a behavior, not recommended in gentle training methods.
Use ‘positive punisher’ with caution, as it can harm the dog’s confidence or cause aggression. Modern reward-based training largely avoids it, focusing on reinforcing good actions instead.
A friend asks, “Is a quick water spray a positive punisher? I prefer not to do that.”

Praising with ‘good boy’ is a simple positive reinforcer.

Positive reinforcer (noun phrase) - A pleasant reward (treat, praise, toy) given when the dog performs the desired behavior.
Use ‘positive reinforcer’ to strengthen behaviors. Evaluate if your dog loves treats, toys, or verbal praise best. Tailoring the reinforcer to the dog’s preference keeps training lively and effective.
A trainer might say, “Identify your dog’s best positive reinforcer to maximize motivation.”

Loosening leash tension after the dog stops pulling is a negative reinforcer.

Negative reinforcer (noun phrase) - Removing an unpleasant condition when the dog does the correct behavior, thus reinforcing that action.
Use ‘negative reinforcer’ if you occasionally rely on gentle pressure or annoyance. The release forms the reward. Ensure it’s mild and combined with praise or treat-based approaches to keep positivity intact.
A friend might say, “Yes, releasing pressure is negative reinforcement when the dog complies.”

He practiced ‘stay’ everywhere until it became a reliable command.

Reliable command (adjective + noun) - A cue the dog obeys consistently, even under distractions or distance.
Use ‘reliable command’ as the standard for success. Proof each behavior in different environments, gradually raising distractions. This ensures the dog remains consistent in real-life scenarios.
A trainer might say, “My goal is to build a reliable command so it works in the dog park chaos.”

Keep the dog below threshold when introducing new dogs, so it doesn’t freak out.

Threshold (noun) - The level of stimulus intensity at which the dog can no longer remain calm or follow commands.
Use ‘threshold’ to gauge your dog’s comfort zone. Stay within workable levels of arousal or fear. If your dog is over threshold, training is less effective— back off or reduce stimulus intensity.
A friend warns, “Crossing threshold leads to barking or meltdown, so we watch for early signals.”

He applied minimal leash pressure to guide the dog back to heel.

Leash pressure (noun phrase) - Tension on the leash that the dog feels, often used gently in negative reinforcement or direction guiding.
Use ‘leash pressure’ subtly. Don’t jerk or yank. A gentle pull plus immediate release upon correct response can be effective. Pair it with positive reinforcement to ensure no fear or force-based methods.
A coworker might note, “Always release leash pressure as soon as the dog complies.”

Teach your dog to ‘settle’ on a mat during dinner or guests’ arrival.

Settle (verb) - A calming cue telling the dog to lie quietly or relax in place.
Use ‘settle’ for relaxation on cue. Lure the dog to lie down calmly, reward a still posture. Over time, it learns to self-calm. Very helpful in high-traffic or overstimulating environments.
A friend mentions, “My Aussie needed a ‘settle’ command to calm her in busy rooms.”

She taught her puppy ‘touch’ so it runs over and nudges her palm gently.

Touch (verb/noun) - A targeting command where the dog taps or boops your hand (or target) with its nose.
Use ‘touch’ to direct the dog’s position or catch its attention. Offer a flat palm at nose level. Reward immediate nose contact. It’s a versatile foundation for recall, trick training, or redirection.
A trainer says, “Touch is great for focus and can lead to more advanced tasks.”
Hand target - Equivalent usage, some trainers prefer ‘hand target’ as a distinct skill name.

Say ‘back up’ if the dog crowds you at the door, teaching it to step away.

Back up (phrasal verb) - A command telling the dog to move backward or reverse out of a certain space.
Use ‘back up’ to create space without physically moving the dog. Lure or gently guide it. Reward small backward steps until it can reliably reverse on just a verbal cue.
A friend might say, “When my dog blocks the hallway, I ask him to back up.”

Tell your dog ‘place’ so it settles on its bed during mealtime.

Place (noun/verb) - Sending the dog to a designated spot (mat, bed) where it remains calmly until released.
Use ‘place’ to anchor your dog to a safe spot. Introduce the bed or mat with rewards each time it steps or sits on it. A release word ends the command. Good for managing household routines.
A trainer might say, “The ‘place’ command is handy for preventing door dashing or mealtime chaos.”

Basic manners can be taught along with formal commands—like politely greeting guests.

Manners (noun) - General polite behaviors such as not jumping, not begging at the table, or calmly greeting people.
Use ‘manners’ for everyday courtesy. Reinforce calm greetings, no whining for food, and no pushing through doorways. Good manners create a pleasant family companion and respectful interactions with visitors.
A friend says, “Manners, such as no jumping, are just as vital as teaching ‘sit.’”

She taught ‘leave it’ for stuff on the ground and ‘drop it’ if the dog already grabbed it.

Leave it vs drop it (noun phrase) - Two commands: ‘leave it’ means don’t pick it up, ‘drop it’ means release something already in the mouth.
Use ‘leave it vs drop it’ intentionally to reduce confusion. Always link each phrase to the right scenario: ‘leave it’ for avoidance, ‘drop it’ for giving up the object. Reward accordingly.
A coworker clarifies, “Leave it vs drop it are different. One prevents picking up, the other relinquishes an item.”

Train polite on leash greetings, ensuring your dog waits for permission before approaching another dog.

On leash greetings (noun phrase) - Allowing dogs or people to approach while your dog remains on leash, controlling interactions calmly.
Use ‘on leash greetings’ carefully to avoid tension or tangling. Keep sessions short, watch body language, and always ask other owners if they’re comfortable with an interaction.
A friend might say, “We practice on leash greetings by having them sit first, then walk over politely.”

Encourage brief eye contact before giving instructions, boosting focus.

Eye contact (noun phrase) - The dog looking into your eyes, often used to gain attention or readiness for commands.
Use ‘eye contact’ to gauge if your dog is fully engaged. Reward small glances at first, building a consistent ‘look at me’ behavior. Once established, it becomes the anchor for advanced cues.
A trainer might mention, “Eye contact fosters a stronger bond and better listening.”

Give an enrichment puzzle when you leave home, so the dog stays occupied.

Enrichment puzzle (noun phrase) - A toy or device (like a Kong or puzzle feeder) that challenges the dog mentally, often filled with treats.
Use ‘enrichment puzzle’ to offer mental stimulation outside training sessions. Reward-based puzzle feeders redirect energy productively. Rotate different puzzle types to prevent predictability.
A friend might say, “Enrichment puzzles reduce my lab’s boredom and destructive chewing.”

Teach an appropriate greeting so your dog gently sniffs guests’ hands, not leaps on them.

Appropriate greeting (noun phrase) - A calm, polite method for a dog to welcome people, e.g., no jumping, waiting to be petted.
Use ‘appropriate greeting’ to ensure no jumping or nipping. Reward sitting or calm posture when new people approach. This fosters a friendly but well-mannered introduction to visitors.
A neighbor might say, “We practiced appropriate greeting at doorways, so our dog waits for a hand sniff.”

Choose a short cue word for each trick, like ‘spin’ or ‘bow.’

Cue word (noun phrase) - A specific term consistently used to trigger a certain behavior or action from the dog.
Use ‘cue word’ carefully. Keep it short and consistent for each behavior. Avoid everyday conversation words for clarity. Over time, the dog associates the cue word with the required action.
A friend mentions, “Too many synonyms confuse dogs, so I keep each cue word distinct.”

After complex drills, do a fun easy ‘sit’ for a session wrap-up, leaving the dog confident.

Session wrap-up (noun phrase) - Ending a training period with a positive note or easy command to keep the dog motivated.
Use ‘session wrap-up’ to close on a win. Let the final memory be a successful, well-rewarded action. Dogs end training enthusiastic and more likely to look forward to the next session.
A trainer says, “Session wrap-up with a guaranteed success fosters positivity.”

She’ll ignore bad behavior like excessive pawing, rewarding calmness instead.

Ignore bad behavior (verb phrase) - Deliberately withholding attention for mild unwanted antics, encouraging the dog to stop on its own.
Use ‘ignore bad behavior’ if it’s minor attention-seeking. Dogs often repeat actions that get them a response, so no reaction can extinguish them. Provide an alternate acceptable behavior to reinforce.
A friend remarks, “Often, ignoring my puppy’s whining stops it faster than scolding.”

He’d redirect the pup chewing shoes to a proper chew toy with a cheerful tone.

Redirect (verb) - Shifting the dog’s focus from unwanted conduct to a more appropriate task or object.
Use ‘redirect’ to quickly guide the dog from negativity to positivity. If it’s barking at the door, redirect to a ‘sit’ or ‘go to place’ for calmer behavior. Always follow up with praise.
A trainer might say, “Don’t just say ‘no’— redirect your dog so it learns what’s okay.”

At first, keep a high reward frequency, then gradually taper off to partial reinforcement.

Reward frequency (noun phrase) - How often you provide treats or praise during training, influencing the dog’s motivation.
Use ‘reward frequency’ strategically. Start with frequent treats for consistent success, then reduce as the behavior solidifies so the dog learns to perform without expecting a treat each time.
A friend might say, “With younger pups, I maintain a higher reward frequency to keep them engaged.”

Keep lessons short and sweet to leave the dog wanting more.

Short and sweet (adjective phrase) - Describes a training approach or session that’s quick yet productive, avoiding dog’s boredom or stress.
Use ‘short and sweet’ as your session motto. Five-minute bursts multiple times a day yield better retention than one long, draining session. Keep your dog’s energy level in mind.
A coworker says, “I do 3-minute stints of ‘sit’ practice— short and sweet ensures focus.”

She practiced a calm hold before trimming the puppy’s nails so it felt secure.

Calm hold (noun phrase) - Gently holding a dog with minimal restraint to soothe or reinforce tranquility, often used in grooming or vet visits.
Use ‘calm hold’ for procedures requiring the dog to remain still. Keep it gentle, never tight. Pair with soft praise or treats, letting the dog form positive associations with being handled or examined.
A friend might say, “That calm hold approach reassured my anxious dog at the vet.”

When she senses a puppy meltdown, she calmly redirects to a chew toy or quiet crate time.

Puppy meltdown (noun phrase) - A momentary overexcitement or frustration in a young dog, leading to whining, biting, or zoomies.
Use ‘puppy meltdown’ to describe outbursts. The best response: remain calm, distract or channel energy into something constructive. Over time, pups mature and meltdown frequency decreases.
A coworker might say, “Puppy meltdowns happen at bedtime if my pup gets overtired.”

Frequent gentle paw handling taught her dog not to fear nail clippers.

Paw handling (noun phrase) - Getting the dog comfortable with touching and holding its paws for grooming or checking injuries.
Use ‘paw handling’ to build trust and tolerance. Begin with short sessions, pairing calm touches with treats. Gradually work up to holding paws longer or using clippers or wipes.
A friend might say, “Start paw handling early, so they don’t freak out at the groomer’s.”

She reminded her family to stay consistent with the ‘down’ command, not mixing ‘lie down’ or ‘lay down.’

Stay consistent (verb phrase) - A principle of applying the same cues, tone, and consequences so the dog understands reliably.
Use ‘stay consistent’ throughout training. Inconsistencies hamper the learning process. Everyone in the household must follow the same words, signals, and rules for best results.
A trainer might say, “If you stay consistent, your dog won't get confused by contradictory commands.”

When introducing leash manners, go one step at a time—like first teaching a calm stand.

One step at a time (phrase) - A reminder to break tasks into small, manageable increments instead of rushing the dog.
Use ‘one step at a time’ to pace your training. Dogs learn better with layered steps, praising each success. Pushing too fast can cause confusion or frustration for both handler and dog.
A friend might say, “He can’t do advanced tricks yet; we do one step at a time to avoid overload.”

[English 101] DOG TRAINING - Basic commands and reward-based learning

Lesson Introduction

Teaching Material

Lesson Summary