PETsMART Clearance

Learning to Drop or Lie Down

We chose to use the word "Lie" in our house, because we had already started saying "DownStairs" (for the obvious reason), and to have another separate command "Down" would have confused our then puppy.

Do not teach this command until your dog has already learnt the Sit command.

With a puppy, you can hold food in front of his nose, and move it slowly down and forward so his body follows it. Say the command "Lie", and gently press down on his shoulders so that he lies down.

Alternatively, from the sit position, give the "Lie" command, and gently pull his front legs forwards until he lies down.

Praise is extremely important during the teaching of this command, as it is a submissive position for a dog to take, confirming your position as the pack leader.