The Doberman is one of the easiest breeds to train and the sit command is not even a challenge for this dog. It's amazing how quickly the Dobe masters basic obedience commands. Most Dobes will be sitting within a couple of days of practice.
Step 1
Hold a leash in one hand and a treat in the other hand. Stand directly in front of your Dobe and allow him to smell and lick the treat, but do not allow him to take it from you. Use a small treat that's easy to chew, such as cut-up turkey hot dogs, liver or cooked chicken pieces.
Step 2
Give the command to sit. Say, “Sit” and raise the treat over the top of your Dobe's nose and over his head so his nose is pointing toward the ceiling. Your Dobe's back knees will get wobbly and he'll start bending his knees and assume the sit position to keep his balance. As soon as his butt hits the ground, give him the treat and enthusiastically say “Good dog! Good sit!”
Step 3
Practice sitting several times per day. Have your Dobe sit in each room of the house, in the yard, at the park and even randomly during walks. This teaches your Dobie to obey the command regardless of distractions in the present location.
References
- Doberman Pinscher: A Comprehensive Guide to Owning and Caring for your Dog; Lou-Ann Cloidt
- The Humane Society of the United States: Teaching Basic Commands
Tips
- This breed is very eager to please, so although the treat is rewarding, your Dobe also needs to hear your verbal satisfaction. Once he knows a new command, wean him off treats and always continue verbal praise.
- Measure your Dobe's dry food for his meals and give it to him by hand as treats while practicing the sit command.
Warnings
- Do not force your Dobe into a sitting position by pushing his buttocks down since this could injure your dog or cause the Dobe to respond with aggression.
Writer Bio
Melissa McNamara is a certified personal trainer who holds a Bachelor of Arts in journalism and communication studies from the University of Iowa. She writes for various health and fitness publications while working toward a Bachelor of Science in nursing.