MMaltese World

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Teaching the command "Down"

It takes time to teach your dog a new behavior.
Dogs are pack animals and you need to be the pack leader.
Training is a great way to establish this.

Many short, fun sessions are best. Ending on succesful note is very important.
Remember, your dog wants to please you.

You will want to read the article on "Sit" prior to learning down.


* Practice "sit" several times.
* Give the command "sit" using a hand signal or treat.(above there nose.)
* Once your dog is in sit position, draw the treat towards the ground in front of him,
keeping his attention, touch the ground and draw the treat towards you,
while commanding "Down" this will cause the dog to go to the down position
to receive the treat.

* Keep repeating until they get it.

* Use this in combination with varying length of long downs.

* If your dog moves from the Down, make a no or "at" sound and return them to the down position or repeat the exercise from the beginning.

* Combine the "Down" with the "Stay" and vary the lengths of time in the "Stay"

Tips..
* Practice when your dog is a little hungry.
* Practice three times each session.
* Practice three to five sessions a day.
* Give the command only once, physically return them to position if they move.
* Release with "OK", plenty of praise and a treat.
* Start using the Down in various places and uses.
* Decrease the amount of treats used.
* Have fun.

You may want to look into some obedience classes, they are a wonderful way to socialize and train your dog. check with your vet, or the local kennel club for availability.

NOTE: most classes will require puppy to have completed his/her vaccinations
as well as rabies.

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