Bichon Frise Training: Various Ways to Teach the Down Command

Bichon frise training involves teaching your dog numerous tricks and commands such as the down command. While the said command is common among numerous dog owners, it must be known by all, specifically by first-time owners that this command is essential in a lot of ways. With down command, it would be easier for you to control and keep him safe in some situations. Furthermore, the down command also serves as basis for many other advanced commands or tricks such as roll over and crawl.

There’s more than one way to teach your dog how to stay down. Depending on your dog’s character, you should determine which method would suit him best. Here are some ways on how you can effectively teach your pet 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, lower it to the ground gradually. Naturally, your precious pet will follow the treat with his eyes and the instant his gaze is lowered on the floor, your hand that is holding the treat must move forward (away from your pet) so that he has to lower himself to reach 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 very first method but if he walks rather than lower himself towards the treat, place your hand at the withers to stop him from standing or running.

Method 3

This method doesn’t require a bait but the aid of a leash instead. With your dog on sit position, stand or kneel next to your dog. Say the command “down” then guide your pet towards the position by holding the leash and carefully pulling it downwards. You may also want to place your hand at the withers and guide him down or lift and stretch his front legs in front of him. The moment he’s 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 several points you must keep in mind.

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

- During the initial period of training, it ought to 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 areas 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.

- Delicious treat is the most effective bait, however, it is important to decrease the use of treat to prevent him from becoming treat dependent that will only respond to the command when there’s a treat present.

Mary Anderson has been sharing her experience about bichon frise training to many pet owners. To learn more tips from her, just visit her site filled with effective information about bichon frise training.