The «down» command is used to tell the dog to take his paws off something. This can be the kitchen counter, bed, living room couch, or anything else you don’t want your dog to climb on.
Dogs usually jump to get to something they want, such as a piece of food or a comfortable place to sleep. This can be a difficult command to teach, but it is possible. Be patient and consistent and your dog will soon respond to the command.
Deposit rewards
The trick to teaching the «down» command is to pick up the dog on something he isn’t allowed to. This means you will need to be prepared and store the treats in a few different places around the house, preferably near these forbidden places. You will have them at hand whenever you need them and you can start training your dog.
Expect behavior (climb)
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Training the «down» command is different from many other basic commands. Instead of scheduling training sessions, you should wait until your dog misbehaves to train him. Keep an eye on your dog and be ready to stop whatever you are doing when you see an inappropriate action.
Give the command
When you see your dog with his paws up on the counter or making himself comfortable on the couch, say «down.» Use a stern tone so your dog knows it’s serious, but don’t yell. React quickly as soon as the action has occurred so that your dog can connect the command with his action.
Attract the dog
Use one of the hidden treats to attract your dog. While giving the down command, show the dog the treat. It may also be helpful to call your dog’s name to get his attention. As soon as all four paws are on the ground, give him the treat.
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Verification problems and behaviors
If you don’t consistently enforce this behavior, it can be difficult for a dog to learn the «down» command and know what is off limits and what is not. The only way your dog will stay off counters or furniture forever is if you let him down every time he gets on.
If you (or someone else in your household) allows the dog exceptions, he will learn that perching is worth it because he will sometimes have the opportunity to steal food or curl up on the couch. Make sure everyone who handles your dog, including family members and visitors, knows and follows these rules.
Continue to repeat the command to your dog every time he jumps on the forbidden furniture, even after you finish training. Lure him with a treat as needed and be sure to give it to him whenever all his paws are on the floor.
Your dog may soon learn that when he jumps on something he gets a treat. In this case, instead of training your dog to go down, have him give you treats instead. To overcome this problem, make your dog work for these rewards. Follow the same steps as above, but before giving up the treat, give the dog another command, such as sit or sit. Offer the treat only after the dog follows this command. You will break the causal link the dog has established between jumping on something and receiving a treat.
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suggestions
Use a crate when you can’t supervise your dog. Dogs learn very quickly that they can get away with certain things when you are not around.
Offer your dog an alternative place to go, especially if he is looking for a comfortable place to nap. Many dogs get up from the couch or bed just long enough to receive the treat and immediately try to get back on.
Make sure he has a comfortable place, like a dog bed. You can train your dog with the «go home» command and send him to his bed, instead of allowing him to try to go back to the couch or bed.
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Once your dog has managed to get food from the kitchen counter, you may need to do a little extra training to train him not to reach for it again. This is especially helpful for larger breeds that can stand on their hind legs and reach up to the counter.
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