Puppies are adorable, chaotic little creatures. One second they’re zooming around like furry rockets, and the next, they’re passed out in the weirdest sleeping positions you’ve ever seen. But ask them to lay down on command? That’s a different story.
You say “down,” and they stare at you like you’re speaking alien. Or worse, they think you’re offering a treat just for breathing. Been there? Welcome to puppy training.
Why Teach “Down” in the First Place?
Teaching your puppy to lay down isn’t just about showing off to your friends or getting a cute photo for Instagram. It’s actually one of the most useful commands you can teach.
It helps calm an overly excited pup, builds focus, and adds a layer of safety when you need your dog to stay still in busy situations.
Vet visits, crowded parks, or just hanging out at a café, down is your best mate in those moments.
Plus, it’s the foundation for other skills like “stay,” “place,” and even polite greetings. It gives your pup something better to do than leap up at guests like a kangaroo on espresso.
The Treat Trick (AKA Luring the Lay Down)
Let’s get into the meat of it, or the cheese of it, depending on what your pup goes nuts for.
Start with your pup in a sitting position. Hold a treat right in front of their nose. Not too high, not too low, just enough to keep them interested.
Now slowly move the treat down toward the ground, between their paws. Then pull it out a little, like you’re drawing a lowercase “L” along the floor.
Their nose should follow it. Once their elbows hit the ground and they’re fully laying down, say “yes!” (or use a clicker if you’re into that), and hand over the treat like it’s a jackpot.
Don’t rush the movement. Let them figure it out. If they try to paw at your hand or wiggle around, just hold steady.
Wait for the magic moment when their belly touches the floor. Then throw a mini celebration.
Some pups get it right away. Others take a few tries. Just keep your tone relaxed and let it be a little fun. No pressure.
Add the Verbal Cue
Once your pup starts following the lure and flopping down like it’s second nature, you’re ready to add the verbal cue, down or lay down, whatever floats your boat.
Say the cue right before you move the treat. So it’s: “Down,” then lure. Do it a few times that way, and eventually, they’ll start to link the word with the action.
Eventually, you’ll say “down” and they’ll plop down even before your hand moves. That’s the golden moment.
If you jump the gun and say the word too soon, before they really understand it, you’ll just end up with a confused pup who thinks “down” means stare blankly and tilt your head dramatically.
Add a Hand signal
Most dogs pick up on hand signals quicker than words, honestly. Once your pup knows the “down” command with the treat, start pairing the word with a clear hand motion.
Use a flat palm, facing down, and move it slowly toward the ground. Keep it simple and consistent.
Eventually, you can use the hand signal by itself. Handy when you need your dog to behave in noisy places where words might get lost in the chaos.
When It Doesn’t Go smoothly
Some pups are stubborn little muffins. They’d rather bark, wiggle, or roll onto their back than lay down nicely.
Don’t force them. Seriously. No pushing their butt or yanking a leash. That’s not training, it’s just confusing and frustrating for both of you.
If your pup isn’t getting it, try practicing on a different surface. Hard floors can be uncomfortable.
Try a mat or carpet. Also, make sure they’re not too hyped up or distracted. Tired pups are usually more willing to chill and follow directions.
And if treats aren’t working? Switch it up. Some pups are food snobs. Try boiled chicken, cheese, or a favorite toy.
Practice In Short Bursts
Puppies have the attention span of a goldfish. Keep training sessions short—five minutes tops. Do it a few times a day, always ending on a high note. One good “down” and you’re done. Walk away a winner.
Don’t drill the command into the ground. If it gets boring or frustrating, they’ll lose interest fast.
Celebrate the Small Wins
That first time your pup lays down without you luring them? Absolute gold.
Reinforce it. Be excited. Give them a treat and act like they just won a medal. Training should feel like a game, not a lecture.
Even if they get it half right—like flopping onto one hip or slowly slinking down like they’re melting, reward the effort and build from there.
Don’t Worry if Your Pup’s Not Perfect
Some days, your pup will act like a genius. Other days, they’ll forget everything and stare at you like “down who?”
That’s normal. Training isn’t a straight line. It’s messy, hilarious, and sometimes full of accidental puddles on the floor.
Keep showing up. Keep it light. You’re not raising a robot, you’re raising a dog with personality.
Wrapping It Up
Teaching a puppy to lay down takes patience, a few good snacks, and a solid sense of humor. It’s not about perfection. It’s about communication and trust.
When your dog finally lays down on cue, it feels like a quiet win in a noisy world. And once they’ve got it, it becomes one of those go-to commands that makes life with a dog smoother, calmer, and a little more connected.
So, how’s your pup doing with their first “down”?