Bichon Frise Training: Different Ways To Teach The Down Command

Bichon frise training involves teaching your pet various tricks and commands including the down command. While the said command is common among many dog owners, it should be known by all, especially by first-time owners that this command is important in a lot of ways. With down command, it would be more easy for you to control and keep him safe in some instances. Additionally, the down command also serves as foundation for many other advanced commands or tricks like roll over and crawl.

There is more than one way to teach your dog how to stay down. Depending on your dog's personality, you have to determine which method works best for him. Here are some ways on how you can successfully teach your dog to obey the down command:

Method 1

When your pet has already mastered the sit command, have him sit first then hold a treat in front of her nose. Once her attention is focused on the treat, slowly lower it to the ground. Naturally, your adorable pet will follow the treat with his eyes and as soon as his gaze is lowered on the floor, your hand that is holding the treat should move forward (away from your pet) so that he has to lower himself toward the treat.

When your pet starts to move towards the down position, give the command "down". This is to associate the verbal command "down" with him laying down. As soon as his belly touches the ground and the legs out in front, reward him with praise and of course with that treat.

Method 2

Follow the first method but if he walks instead of lower himself towards the treat, place your hand at the withers to prevent him from standing or walking.

Method 3

This method does not require a lure but the help of a leash instead. With your dog on sit position, stand or kneel next to your dog. Say the command "down" then guide your dog towards the position by holding the leash and gently pulling it downwards. You may also want to place your hand at the withers and guide him down or lift and extend his front legs in front of him. As soon as he is in the down position, reward with treat or praise to let him know that you are pleased with what he did.

Just like when teaching other weimaraner training commands, there are some points you need to bear in mind.

- Getting desirable results does not happen overnight. Your pet may need a lot of repetition before he can figure out what he is supposed to do so you have to be very patient.

- During the initial stage of training, it should be done in an area where there are less distractions however when he has mastered the command, add something to it like practicing the command in different locations with different people.

- While this command is best taught when your dog is in sit position, teach him to obey the command also when he is standing, walking or running.

- Tasty treat is the most effective lure, however, it is important to minimize the use of treat to prevent him from becoming treat dependent that will only obey the command when there is a treat present.

Mary Anderson has been sharing her knowledge about bichon frise training to a lot of dog owners. To read more tips from her, just visit her site filled with useful information about bichon frise training.