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When you adopt a new puppy, you’re committing to a lifetime of love and friendship with the perfect companion. But before you give your pet the run of the house, they need to learn a few basic commands that will lay the groundwork for their training and keep them out of trouble. If you’ve never trained a dog or puppy before, Evergreen Kennels, a doggy daycare and kennel in Churchville, NY, can help you get started.

Below, their staff shares four basic commands you can teach any dog no matter where they are in their training: 

  1. Sit: “Sit” is a core command your dog should know. It will keep them from jumping on guests or running off. To teach this command, sit near your pet and hold a treat over their nose. As you raise it higher, their butt will lower to the ground and into a seated position. Once their bottom touches the ground, say the word “sit” and immediately give them the treat. Repeat this several times a day, praising your dog every time they do it correctly. 
  2. Come: “Come” can be taught in your yard using a leash. Place the leash on your dog’s collar and allow them to walk around the yard with you. When you’re decently far from one another, say the word “come” and gently tug the leash in your direction. As your dog begins to walk back toward you, you then praise them and reward them with the treat. As with “sit,” this command should be repeated until learned.
  3. kennelStay: Like “sit,” “stay” is essential for your pup’s safety. It will keep them from taking off when catching sight of something that excites them and will make it easier to leave them at a kennel or with a dog sitter. To teach this command, have your dog sit next to you while you hold their leash. Wave a flat palm in front of their muzzle and say “stay” then stand in front of them before stepping back beside them once again. If they stay put the entire time, reward them with praise and a treat. If they move, don’t scold them. Instead, say, “oops” and try again. Repeat until the behavior is learned.
  4. Lay: To teach “lay,” clasp a treat tightly in your hand and place it over your puppy’s muzzle. Slowly lower your hand to the ground as they become interested in the treat. They will follow your hand down and begin to splay out on the ground. Once they are fully on the ground, say the word “lay” and give them their treat. Repeat this sequence a few times every day.

For more help training your pet, call Evergreen Kennels at (585) 293-1920. For information on all services offered at this kennel including grooming and cat sitting, visit them online

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