Lay Down

Here's how to teach your dog to lay down:

• Have your dog sit.
  
• Let your dog sniff a treat you are holding, but don't let him have it.
  
• Lower the treat to the floor, and as you are doing that, your dog should follow it down. Be sure to say "lay down" as your dog begins to lower himself.
  
• Your dog should lower himself all the way to the floor.
  
• Only give him the treat once he is on the floor. Repeat the words "lay down" many times: Say, "Good boy, lay down. Lay down you good boy." You're laying down!"
  
• Practice this several times during the day and over several days.

Lay Down position

After your dog has learned the command to 'lay down', you can practice it with 'stay'.

It's okay to let your dog down and stay for 15 or 20 minutes. It is okay if he falls asleep! Once in a while it is helpful when he needs to calm down.

TIP:

Only give your dog the treat while he is lying down, not after he gets up. When he gets up, give him lots of hugs and kisses!