🐾 The 3 Most Important Dog Training Commands Every Owner Should Teach

At Pringle Pawz, we believe every dog deserves the chance to live freely, confidently, and safely. Training isn’t just about obedience — it’s about communication, trust, and keeping your furry friend out of harm’s way.

While there are many commands you can teach, three stand out as absolutely essential for every dog: Recall, Leave It, and Stay. These commands form the foundation for a happy, well-behaved, and safe dog.

1. **Recall (“Come”) — Freedom with Safety

Nothing brings more joy than seeing your dog run freely, tail wagging, full of energy and excitement. But that freedom must come with safety — and that’s where recall comes in.

A strong recall allows your dog to explore their environment while giving you peace of mind knowing they’ll come back when called. Whether you’re at the park, beach, or in your garden, this command helps your dog enjoy life naturally and safely.

Why Recall Matters:

• Prevents your dog from running into danger or traffic.

• Strengthens your bond through trust and consistency.

• Allows for natural exercise and exploration.

Training Tip: Always make coming back fun and rewarding! Use high-value treats, cheerful tones, or playtime to make “Come!” the best word your dog knows.

2. **Leave It — A Life-Saving Command

Dogs are naturally curious and love to explore the world with their noses and mouths — but not everything they find is safe. Teaching your dog to “Leave it” could prevent them from eating something toxic, chasing wildlife, or picking up something harmful.

Why “Leave It” Matters:

• Stops your dog from eating something poisonous or dangerous.

• Prevents unwanted confrontations or injuries.

• Builds self-control and respect for boundaries.

Training Tip: Start indoors with treats in your hand. When your dog resists the urge to grab the treat, reward them with a different one. Practice regularly so the command becomes second nature in real-life situations.

3. **Stay — Calm, Controlled, and Safe

“Stay” is one of the most important commands for maintaining control in everyday situations. Whether you’re opening a door, crossing a road, or greeting guests, a solid stay keeps your dog safe and calm.

Why “Stay” Matters:

• Prevents accidents like running into roads or bolting from doors.

• Promotes patience, calmness, and self-control.

• Makes daily routines smoother and safer.

Training Tip: Begin with short stays and reward your dog frequently for success. Gradually increase the time and distance before releasing them with “Okay!” or “Free!”. Consistency is key.

Building a Strong Foundation

At Pringle Pawz, we believe great training starts with understanding and patience.

Teaching your dog to Come, Leave It, and Stay not only makes life safer but also strengthens your connection and trust.

When training is positive and consistent, you’ll have a happy, confident dog who listens because they want to — not because they have to.

If you’d like help building these skills, explore our Dog Training Services or contact us to book a personalised session. Together, we’ll help your dog reach their full potential — one command at a time.