Training Commands

It is important to keep commands consistent among volunteers and staff. Focus on these seven core commands. Additional commands are listed for advanced training of “project dogs.”

High Priority

  • Sit: remain in sit position.

  • Stay: remain in position until released.

  • Down: lie down fully on ground and hold until released.

  • Leave it: ignore current distraction.

  • Off: do not jump up (distinct from “down” to lie down).

  • Come: ignore distractions and go directly to handler.

  • Heel or Walk: get by and stay by handler’s side.

Additional Commands

  • Watch Me: make eye contact on you, regardless of distractions.

  • Wait: hang on for a short duration, then receive follow-up.

  • Yes: verbal marker to let the dog know its actions are correct.

  • Good: verbal praise after ‘yes’ marker or release.

  • OK, Release or Free: dog can move from current position.

  • Drop it: spit out what’s in the dog’s mouth.