Training method:  Treat

Sit is a vital command in any dog’s repertoire.  It is often used as a precursor to another command, like sit and stay, or sit and high-five, and it is important for your pup to know this one so she can greet people politely.  Teaching your deaf dog to sit is super easy and can often be taught in just a few minutes!  My little helper in these photos is my current deaf foster puppy, Nani.

Step 1:  Start by holding a treat between your thumb and index finger, and holding your hand away from your body with your palm up.

Step 2:  Once your dog smells the treat, slowly raise your palm up.  Your hand should be close to your dog’s head and slightly above it so that she is not tempted to walk forward for the treat.

Step 3:  Lure your dog into the sitting position.  It may take a minute for her to figure it out, so be patient.

Step 4:  As soon as her bum touches the ground, flash the “good dog” sign and give her the reward!  Eventually you will be able to phase out the treat, but the palm-up raising hand will remain the sign for sit.