Detailed Explanation of the Methods and Steps for Training a Dog to Lie Down

Lie-down training is about developing the dog's ability to lie down quickly in response to the owner's command.

Command: "Down"; hand signal: for the front-facing down, raise the right hand, then extend it forward and level, with the palm facing down; for the side down, point the right hand downward from in front of the dog. First have the dog sit on the left side, the owner steps forward with the right leg, bends the body forward and downward, then uses food held in the right hand to lure the dog. When the dog shows it wants to get the food, take the opportunity to slowly move the food from below the dog's mouth forward and downward, while giving the "Down" command. When the dog lies down, promptly reward it with food. Later, as the conditioned reflex gradually forms, the food stimulus can be removed, and the dog can be made to lie down with just the command and hand signal.

Another method is to have the dog sit on the left side, then the owner steps back with the left leg and takes a crouching posture, grips the dog's two front legs with both hands, gives the "Down" command, and pulls the dog's two front legs forward and extends them, while pressing the dog's shoulder with the left arm; when the dog lies down correctly, reward it immediately. Remember, when the dog does something wrong or does not obey commands, do not punish it; instead, as soon as it does something right, immediately pat its head and praise it a few words, and it will be more obedient, because encouragement is never too much.