One of the most powerful tools in dog training is the “down” command. More than just a cue, teaching your dog to lie down builds impulse control, emotional regulation, and calm in your pet. A well-trained “down” tells a dog there’s no reason to move—”just relax and stay until I tell you otherwise.” With enough practice, this command can help reduce arousal and make your dog more responsive in any environment.
Why the Down Command is Essential for Dog Training
When a dog truly understands “down,” it becomes more than just a trick, it becomes a default behavior. Whether you’re at a café, watching a game, or just hanging out in the park, a solid “down” allows your dog to calmly exist in the world without constant micromanagement.
Teaching the Down Command Step-by-Step
When introducing “down,” I take a structured approach, starting with food lures. After that, I will layer in verbal cues and leash pressure. Finally, I’ll proof the behavior in varying environments.
Step 1: Lure & Shape the Behavior
I never start by saying the word “down.” Instead, I first teach the behavior—helping the dog understand what I want before attaching a verbal cue to it. First, I’ll use a treat to guide the dog into position, slowly lowering the treat to the ground so the dog naturally follows. As soon as the dog’s belly hits the floor, I mark it with “yes” and reward them. Learn more about marker words for dog training.
Instead of immediately releasing the dog after they lie down, I introduce the marker word “good,” communicating to the dog that if they stay in this position, food will keep coming. This teaches the dog that staying down is rewarding.
Once the dog is reliably offering the behavior when offered a treat, I start saying “down” right before I use the food lure. Over time, they learn to associate the word with the action.
Step 2: Add Leash Pressure for Reliability
Once my dog understands “down” in a low-distraction environment, I add another layer: leash pressure. A slight downward pull on the leash (not a correction, just gentle guidance) signals the dog to lie down. This ensures that even when they’re distracted, I have a way to reinforce the command. It also builds reliability—if they don’t respond to the verbal cue, I have a backup.
Step 3: Proofing the Command
Once my dog knows “down,” reliably in the initial training environment, I begin expanding upon its meaning and seek to improve these areas:
- Speed – Can my dog drop into “down” quickly?
- Distance – Will they go into “down” even if I’m far away?
- Motion – Can they do it while moving, such as when running, playing, or heeling?
- Distractions – Will they lie down even when other dogs are playing, people are walking, or a squirrel is nearby?
One of my favorite exercises is walking with my dog in a structured heel and giving the “down” cue while continuing to walk away. If the dog stays put, I know they truly understand the command.
Teach Your Dog to Lie Down and Settle Anywhere
A reliable “down” makes life with a dog easier and more enjoyable. If you practice it enough, it can become a way for your dog to self regulate and lower their arousal in high-energy situations. This sets you up for a lifetime of relaxed outings, from crowded events to quiet moments at home.
The more you reinforce “down” when your dog is young, the more natural it becomes for them. A well-trained “down” isn’t just about obedience—it’s about giving your dog a skill that helps them navigate the world with confidence and calm.
Watch this video to see how to train perfect form that makes your dog look good and is easier on their joints:
