The Sit Command 101

This is the "sit" command using the contrastive method. A more complex and effective training method than just the food reward method alone.
The "sit" skill is basic and is the dog's starting position for future actions both during training and on the job. The skill disciplines the dog. Conditioned reflexes - the "sit" command and hand signal - raising the extended right hand forward and up to the trainer's eye level with the palm up. Unconditioned stimuli - jerk of the leash, downward pressure on the dog's lower back, petting, treat. The exercise is conducted at the trainer's left leg or in front of him/her. Later, the skill will be performed at a distance. Finally, the conditioned reflex is developed in surroundings familiar to the dog with a minimum of distracting stimuli. The dog must be hungry. The exercise is as follows. The trainer picks up a treat with his/her right hand. He gives the "sit" command, and after 0.5-1 second he brings the hand with the treat to the dog's face and raises his hand above the dog's hand, forces the dog to sit. As soon as the dog sits, the trainer rewards it by giving the treat. In this way, the trainer explains to the dog what "sit" means. This method is necessary for the first training phase and while working with an untrained dog. After the "explanation" has been shown to the dog, we begin the process of forming the learned behavior. The trainer gives the "sit" command and after 0.5-1 second jerks the lead upwards and back, simultaneously applying downward pressure to the lower back area. As soon as the dog sits, the trainer rewards it by petting and giving a treat. After keeping the dog in this position for 5-10 seconds, he/she releases the dog to relax and move freely. The initial conditioned reflex is considered developed if the dog quickly sits in response to the "sit" command without having to employ the unconditioned stimulus. If it remains in the sitting position for 10-15 seconds; and if the trainer takes two steps away, the dog does not move. Subsequently, complexity is introduced, A lengthy "stay" in the sitting position is developed along with a simultaneous increase in the distance between the trainer and dog while complying with the following rules: do no rush to increase the distance between the trainer and dog, especially up to 10-12 meters, or the time the dog stays in one place. The distance can be increased in one step intervals and the time by 15-20 seconds every 2-3 lessons. Do not call the dog after making it stay at a distance. It is better to approach the dog, pet it, give a treat, and work with other exercises. If the dog breaks off and becomes confused, the trainer returns to the dog to its previous position by giving the "no" command with threatening intonation, reinforced with an unconditioned stimulus. Walk away from the dog initially backwards, facing the dog, watching it all the time. In the future it will be possible to walk away in any fashion and at various speeds (walking, running) The skill is considered fully developed if the dog always sits down from any position on the trainer's first signal. He must do this under complex conditions and at 20-35 meters from the trainer and stay for at least 5 minutes.
Potential trainer errors: 1. Numerous repetitions of the "sit" command before reinforcement with the unconditioned stimulus. 2. Calling the dog repeatedly from the sitting position or allowing the dog to be released and relax after staying for only a short time. 3. Incorrect pressure is applied to the dog's lower back. 4. Poor timing while correcting the dog's improper position while sitting.K9s 4 American is a non-profit company that helps provide service dogs to veterans and law enforcement.
We enhance the safety and improve the health of American communities by providing highly trained canines to law enforcement, veterans and schools.
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The MWD method began with my journey to St. Petersburg Russia in 2012. There I began studying K9 training at the Royal Dog Academy under the direction of Maxim Basyro. Upon my return to the U.S. I spent the next 10 years developing dogs, studying dna, neuron activity, and connectivity of the central nervous system. MWD K9 was founded in 2012 in order to develop the best possible training methods for K9 and humans. Now based in Columbus, Ohio, this UA-cam Channel is our way of sharing what we've learned with you.

[@SuperFrangelica]

Why is it a goal for them to be off leash? I get it it’s cool and makes you look like a good trainer and the dog feels freer. However, it’s irresponsible in reality for the lay person. So many things can happen that can be dangerous to the dog and others. The dog can run off, get lost, get hit by a car, run after another dog and fight, run up to a person and bite them, ect. How can you ignore these real possibilities? If it’s a military dog I get it. But not the average family dog.

[@VistarCreative]

Very cool. It’s awesome to see children, watching dog training, videos and commenting. Way to go kid.