Why “Lie Down” Matters in Dog Training
Trying to teach a dog to lie down? Teaching your dog to lie down isn’t just about obedience—it’s a foundational cue that builds calm behavior, impulse control, and focus. When used consistently, it can:
- Help your dog settle during overstimulating situations
- Prevent jumping or overexcited behavior
- Serve as a building block for advanced cues like “stay” or “roll over”
Whether you have a puppy or an adult dog, learning how to teach a dog to lie down makes your training toolkit more effective.
What You’ll Need
- High-value treats (soft, small, and irresistible)
- A quiet environment with minimal distractions
- Patience, consistency, and a positive attitude
Optional:
- A clicker for marking behavior
- A mat or training pad
Step-by-Step: How to Teach a Dog to Lie Down
1. Start with a Sit
Begin with your dog in a sitting position. This helps them naturally transition into a down posture.
2. Use a Treat to Lure
Hold a treat at your dog’s nose, then slowly move your hand down between their front paws and slightly forward. Most dogs will follow the treat into a “lie down” position.
3. Mark and Reward
As soon as your dog’s elbows touch the ground, use a clicker or say “Yes!” then immediately give the treat. This reinforces the correct behavior.
4. Add the Verbal Cue
Once your dog consistently follows the hand lure, introduce the verbal cue “Lie down” just before luring. Over time, phase out the lure and rely only on the cue.
5. Practice in Short Sessions
🐾 Want More Positive Training Success?
Learn the Science of Positive ReinforcementTrain for 3–5 minutes a few times daily. Gradually add distractions, distance, and duration to strengthen the command.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Repeating the cue: Say “Lie down” once, then wait. Repeating can dilute the command.
- Using force: Never push your dog into position. This causes stress and confusion.
- Not reinforcing enough: Reward generously in the early stages to build a positive association.
Benefits of Teaching Your Dog to Lie Down
- Promotes relaxation during overstimulating environments (e.g., vet offices, guests arriving)
- Prepares for stay and settle commands, critical for long-duration control
- Reinforces your leadership role through consistent, calm communication
Advanced Lie Down Practice
- Add “stay” to the “lie down” command to increase impulse control
- Use duration training by slowly extending how long your dog remains in the down position
- Practice in different locations to generalize the behavior
How to Teach a Dog to Lie Down in Real Life Situations
- Before meals to create calm anticipation
- At doorways to prevent darting
- At the vet or groomer for cooperative care
- In public (e.g., cafes, parks) for polite behavior
Final Tips for Success
- Use positive reinforcement consistently
- End on a success—don’t train until your dog gets frustrated
- Stay patient and celebrate progress
📚 Want Scientific Proof?
The American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior (AVSAB) strongly advocates for reward-based methods in dog training. Their position is backed by years of behavioral science and veterinary research.
Read the AVSAB Official Position Paper