The Stand Command
Prerequisites: Foundation, Heel, Sit, Stay
1. Begin with your normal heeling and sitting warm up.
2. Place the dog in a sit.
3. Slide your hands down low on the leash, similar to preparing for the 'sit'.
4. Give the 'stand' command as you step out - just one step - with your left foot. Apply gentle pressure forward and
slightly down with your hands. If needed, slip your left hand under the dog's belly to keep it standing - do not LIFT
with the left hand, simply use it to keep the dog up, if necessary.
5. Stroke the dog on it’s head and shoulders, avoiding the rear end, so as not cause confusion by accidentally
cueing the sit.
Sneak Peek:
Our next challenge will be teaching the dog to 'down' (lie down) on command. I did an interesting experiment in
2002. I left out the 'stand' lesson for my classes, and went directly into the 'down' training. I only did that for about 2
months. That group of dogs were impossibly difficult to teach the 'down' command! Lesson learned - teach and
master the 'stand' before you attempt to teach the 'down!'
This is because the 'stand' and 'down' commands are related to dominance & submission for your dog. Being
placed in the stand and down positions can bring out the devil in some dogs, confuse some dogs, and for other
dogs seem to be no problem at all.
Keep a positive, gentle attitude this week while working on the 'stand.' That will ensure that next session the 'down'
will be a much easier process.