The First 5 Commands Every Dog Should Learn for a Well-Behaved Companion

A well-trained dog is a happy, confident dog! These five essential commands set the foundation for obedience and safety.

Teaching your dog fundamental commands isn’t just about obedience—it’s about creating structure, safety, and a strong bond between you and your dog. When dogs understand what’s expected of them, they are more confident, well-mannered, and enjoyable to live with. "Training is about communication," says Denise Bozenski, owner of Fetch This Canine. "When a dog understands these five essential commands, everything else in training—and in life—becomes easier."

Learn more about Denise HERE!

Whether you have a new puppy or an older dog in need of structure, these five foundational commands will set your dog up for success.

Come – The Most Important Command

A solid recall is non-negotiable. Teaching your dog to come when called is a life-saving skill, preventing them from running into dangerous situations. "If there’s only one command your dog listens to 100% of the time, it should be ‘Come,’" Denise emphasizes. "This command gives you control in emergencies and allows for safe off-leash freedom when trained properly."

How To Teach It

• Start indoors with minimal distractions.
• Use an excited voice, open body language, and a treat reward.
• Gradually increase distance and add distractions as your dog improves.
• Never punish a dog for coming—always make it rewarding!

Sit – The Foundation of Good Manners

"Sit" is one of the first commands most dogs learn and is the foundation for impulse control and focus. It prevents jumping, encourages polite greetings, and prepares dogs for more advanced training. "A dog that knows ‘Sit’ is already ahead in obedience," Denise says. "It helps redirect excitement and teaches patience."

How To Teach It

• Hold a treat above your dog’s nose and slowly move it back toward their ears.
• As their head follows the treat, their bottom will naturally lower.
• The moment they sit, mark it with "Yes!" and reward.

Down – Encouraging Relaxation

"Down" is an extension of "Sit" but promotes an even greater level of calmness and self-control. Down is also a much for comfortable position for dogs to be in and is most beneficial for when a dog needs to stay in one spot for an extended period of time. "Teaching ‘Down’ is essential for creating a relaxed, well-mannered dog," Denise explains. "It’s especially helpful for overexcited dogs and in busy environments."

Learn more about holistic dog training on our blog, Unlock Your Dog’s Full Potential with Holistic Training.

How To Teach It

• Ask your dog to sit.
• Lure them into a down position by moving a treat from their nose straight down to the floor.
• As soon as their chest touches the ground, reward them.
• Practice having them hold the position before releasing them.

Place – Creating a Safe Space

The "Place" command teaches a dog to go to a designated spot, such as a bed or mat, and stay there until released. It’s great for managing excitement, controlling unwanted behaviors, and giving your dog a calm space in the home. "‘Place’ is one of my favorite commands because it gives dogs a job to do," Denise shares. "It keeps them from being underfoot, stops door dashing, and helps them settle when guests arrive."

How To Teach It

• Lead your dog to their bed or mat.
• Use a treat to lure them onto it and say "Place" as they step on.
• Reward when they stay, then release them after a few seconds.
• Gradually increase the duration before release.

Heel – Leash Manners for Better Walks

"Heel" teaches your dog to walk politely beside you without pulling, making walks enjoyable instead of stressful. "Loose leash walking is one of the biggest struggles for dog owners," Denise says. "But with consistency, ‘Heel’ makes walks more controlled and enjoyable for both dog and handler."

How To Teach It

• Start with your dog at your side in a quiet area.
• Use a treat to guide them into the proper position and mark it with "Yes!"
• Take a step forward and reward them for staying with you.
• Gradually increase steps before rewarding.

Balanced Training: The Key to Reliable Obedience

Balanced training combines positive reinforcement (rewards) with clear boundaries and expectations. It ensures dogs are motivated to learn while also understanding limits. "Balanced training isn’t about being harsh—it’s about being fair and clear," Denise explains. "We use rewards to reinforce good behavior, but we also teach dogs what’s not acceptable. This creates reliability and confidence."

For more information on balanced training and how it can help your dog, check out our blog, Balanced Dog Training: What It Is, Why It Works & How It Aligns with Holistic Training.

The Importance of Consistency and Practice

Training isn’t a one-time event; it’s an ongoing process that requires patience, consistency, and reinforcement. Practicing these commands daily—even for just a few minutes—helps solidify your dog’s understanding and response. "Dogs thrive on consistency," Denise says. "The more you practice, the stronger their obedience becomes. And remember—training should be fun!"

Contact Fetch This Canine for Professional Training

Whether you’re starting with a new puppy or working through behavioral challenges with an older dog, professional training can make all the difference. "I work with dogs of all ages and behaviors, using balanced training to help owners build better relationships with their dogs," Denise shares. "If you’re struggling with obedience or leash manners, I’d love to help!"

Ready to transform your dog’s behavior? Contact Fetch This Canine today to start training! Get started HERE!

FAQs

How long does it take to teach these five commands?

With consistent training, most dogs can grasp the basics within a few weeks, but reliability takes ongoing practice.

Can I train my older dog, or is it too late?

Dogs of all ages can learn! While puppies absorb training quickly, older dogs benefit just as much with patience and consistency.

What if my dog doesn’t listen in distracting environments?

Start training in a quiet space, then gradually introduce distractions. A professional trainer can help with focus and real-world reliability.