Getting your dog to sit is very important and should be practiced in many different situations. Make him sit when someone comes to the door. Make your dog sit when he greets you. Make him sit when he meets small children.
Starting early can help prevent "jumping problems" and "safely" establish your "rank" within the household.
To perform this exercise:
1. Have a treat or toy in your hand.
2. Place it directly in front of your dog's nose.
3. Slowly move the treat slightly up and behind your dog, with his head following.
4. His head should go up and his butt down into a sitting position.
5. Say, "Good Sit" and reward.
Note:
• If your dog moves back rather than sitting down, start over.
• If you feel your dog just isn't getting it or getting frustrated, break the exercise down into smaller parts. For example: reward him just for moving his head back.
Remember that dog training takes patience and commitment.