[Day 17] "Sit" for professionals - how to master everyday situations
Basic obedience: Day 17 of 56
This video and training is part of the Grunge Obedience Concept, a structured programme to promote obedience and the bond between humans and dogs. The concept is carefully didactic and methodical to ensure that each exercise builds on the previous one for maximum effectiveness. It is crucial that you carry out the training in the intended order to achieve the best possible results for your dog.
The "sit" signal may sound simple, but a perfect "sit" is particularly evident in situations in which your dog is emotionally upset or distracted. You want your dog to respond reliably to the "sit" signal even in stressful moments - whether in the city, with other dogs or surrounded by lots of people. With a professional "sit" you are always in control and can guide your dog safely.
In this blog, we will show you how to build up the "sit" step by step so that you can remain confident even under strong stimuli. Together with your dog, you will set clear milestones that will lead you to success. Whether in a rural or urban environment - a strong "sit" is the key to more composure in everyday life!
Goal: The dog sits immediately on the signal and remains sitting despite the external stimulus until another signal or the release signal is given.
Equipment: treats, Collar, Leash, clicker or marker signal
Location: Low-stimulus environment, later different locations
Duration: 5-10 repetitions, then rest
"Sit" for professionals - more control even in exciting moments
The "sit" signal is one of the first commands that most people teach their dog. But the true potential of this signal only becomes apparent when your dog has mastered it reliably, even under strong external stimuli. A professional "sit" means that your dog remains calm and controlled in exciting moments - when other dogs are around, there are lots of people around you or loud noises suddenly occur. This level of impulse control is incredibly valuable in everyday life.
Mastering everyday situations
Unexpected, exciting situations can occur time and again in everyday life. Perhaps you come across a loose dog on a walk or you suddenly have to stop on a busy street. With a well-trained "sit", you can master these situations in a relaxed manner because you know that your dog will sit calmly until you give him a new signal. The advantage of a strong "sit" is that your dog learns to sit back and pay attention to you instead of reacting to the many stimuli in the environment.
Set individual goals
The most important thing when training a "sit" for professionals is that you set yourself individual goals that suit your life. Do you live in a rural area where your dog often encounters other dogs or wild animals? Then your goal could be for your dog to stay calmly in the "sit" position at such times. If you live in the city, it may be more important for your dog to sit when surrounded by lots of people or in heavy traffic. Every dog-human team has different challenges and your training goal should be based on these individual needs.
Training in stages - from easy to difficult
The key to a successful "sit" under distraction is gradual training. It makes little sense to immediately put your dog in the most exciting situation and expect a "sit". Instead, build up the training in stages. Start in a calm environment where your dog has already mastered the "sit" command. From there, increase the difficulty by gradually adding new stimuli - be it other dogs, busy streets or noises. In this way, your dog learns to deal with increasingly challenging situations in a safe environment.
Gradual training prevents frustration and excessive demands - for both you and your dog. If you realise that your dog is having difficulties at a certain stage, take a step back to give him reassurance. This turns training into a positive, motivating experience.
Recognising and consciously using stimuli
When training, it is important to observe exactly which stimuli are particularly difficult for your dog. Is it other dogs? Loud noises? Crowds of people? These stimuli are the key to adapting the training to your dog's needs. The better you understand what upsets your dog, the more targeted your training can be.
So set yourself clear milestones: For example, that your dog can stay in "sit" for 30 seconds in a quiet environment, then with a passing dog, and finally in a busy environment. With each milestone, you will strengthen your dog's confidence in the "sit" signal - and its ability to remain calm in difficult moments.
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Summary
A perfect professional "sit" is more than just a quick reaction from your dog. It is an expression of trust, control and impulse control in every situation. By setting clear milestones and gradually increasing the training, you give your dog the opportunity to remain calm and confident even under strong stimuli. With patience and a systematic approach, you will ensure that your dog remains a reliable companion in all everyday situations.
A reliable "sit" not only makes everyday life easier, but also strengthens the bond between you and your dog. Together you will learn to master difficult situations and build trust in each other. This will make your dog a safe and balanced partner - no matter what everyday life has in store for you!
This video and training is part of the Grunge Obedience Concept, a structured programme to promote obedience and the bond between humans and dogs. The concept is carefully didactic and methodical to ensure that each exercise builds on the previous one for maximum effectiveness. It is crucial that you carry out the training in the intended order to achieve the best possible results for your dog.
The authors: Paulina & Lui
Paulina and Lui are the heart and soul behind Vitomalia [Dogstraining & Store]. Her journey in dog training began with the adoption of her first list dog, Vito. This experience sparked her deep interest in teaching other dog owners about dog behaviour and training. Initially this was just a hobby, but with the adoption of the American Pitbull Amalia, who had been relinquished several times due to severe behavioural problems, her passion developed into a true vocation. Amalia's particular behavioural challenges intensified her interest in dog training and behavioural therapy. This turning point led Paulina and Lui to leave their original career paths, undergo intensive further training and dedicate themselves entirely to the subject of dog training. Their work with human-dog teams also revealed a gap in the dog market: there was a lack of safe, high-quality dog accessories specifically for medium-sized and large breeds.
From this realisation, Vitomalia [Dogstraining & Store] was born, a combination of their commitment to professional dog training and the need for quality dog accessories. Paulina and Lui bring their personal experience, extensive knowledge and passion for dogs to every product to help human-dog teams live together.