Troubleshooting
There are a couple of common problems that can arise when using this method to train a dog to sit:
Your dog raises his front paws as he sits
If your dog lifts his front paws off the ground as you move the lure over his head, you’re holding it too high. Try again, but this time keep your chosen lure only an inch or so from his nose.
Rather than sitting, your dog backs up to follow the lure
If your dog backs up to follow the lure without moving into the sit position, do the exercise in a corner. You shouldn’t have to push on his hind end to train him to sit. See basics of giving your dog a training command to learn why touching your dog while giving a command can complicate the obedience training process.
Until your dog makes the necessary connection between the obedience command and the correct response, punishment is counterproductive. Refrain from saying “no” and keep your words to a minimum to avoid confusion. The training command and lots of praise are all you need when teaching your dog how to sit.
