Setting expectations is a crucial step in basic obedience training. Your dog is always going to be testing boundaries, seeing what they can and cannot get away with. Setting clear expectations from the start will help guide your dog out of that mindset, as they instinctively have a desire to please. Next is step two: introducing commands. Ask your dog to complete a task, demonstrate or manipulate their movement to mimic the desired task, and mark and reward upon completion. They may take a few tries to understand the task, but once there's an understanding, it will be easier to mark and reward and eventually master the command.

The third step is timing. Recognize when your dog has had enough. If they are disengaged, they are not in the ideal mindset to learn. Save the training session for when your dog is alert and responsive. And the last step is positive reinforcement. Reward your dog for their good behavior, rather than punishing them for unwanted behavior. Not providing a treat for an unwanted behavior, and directing them again to demonstrate a more desired behavior is a great form of correction. Following these four steps will help set your dog up for success during basic obedience training.