Top 200+ Words and Commands Dogs Can Learn: Comprehensive Training Guide

At Stokeshire Designer Doodles, we believe in the power of proper training to create well-rounded, happy, and obedient dogs. Whether you're bringing home one of our adorable Bernedoodles, Golden Mountain Doodles, or Australian Mountain Dogs/Doodles, early and consistent training is key to building a lifelong bond. Did you know that dogs are capable of learning up to 250 words and commands? Let's dive into the world of canine communication and training!

Why Training is Crucial for Stokeshire Designer Pup

Stokeshire Designer Doodles are a unique blend of energy, intelligence, and affection. Without proper training, this combination can lead to behavioral issues and frustration for both the dog and the owner. Training helps manage behavior and stimulates their active minds, providing the mental and physical exercise they need. By investing time in training, you're setting the foundation for a well-behaved and happy dog, making your life easier and more enjoyable.

Dogs are capable of learning a wide range of words and commands, especially when trained consistently. While some dogs might only learn basic commands, others, especially working or service dogs, can be trained to understand hundreds of commands. Here's a broad list of words/commands that dogs can learn, categorized into various areas:

Basic Commands

1. Sit

2. Stay

3. Down

4. Come

5. Heel

6. No

7. Leave it

8. Drop it

9. Off

10. Wait

Directional Commands

1. Go left

2. Go right

3. Back up

4. Forward

5. Turn around

Fetching/Handling Objects

1. Fetch

2. Bring it

3. Take it

4. Give

5. Hold

6. Drop

7. Pick up

8. Find it

9. Carry

10. Catch

Behavioral Commands

1. Quiet

2. Speak

3. Roll over

4. Shake

5. High five

6. Paw

7. Touch

8. Kiss

9. Beg

10. Bark

Location-Based Commands

1. Go to bed

2. Crate

3. Kennel

4. Place

5. Inside

6. Outside

7. Car

8. Upstairs

9. Downstairs

10. Go home

Agility/Activity Commands

1. Jump

2. Weave

3. Tunnel

4. Climb

5. Over

6. Under

7. Through

8. Up

9. Down

10. Balance

Specialized Training (for service/therapy/working dogs)

1. Help

2. Retrieve

3. Alert

4. Open door

5. Close door

6. Turn on light

7. Turn off light

8. Press button

9. Pull

10. Tug

Scent-Related Commands (for detection dogs)

1. Find (drugs/explosives)

2. Search

3. Track

4. Seek

5. Alert (for scent)

6. Sniff

7. Target

8. Show me

9. Indicate

10. Clear

Hunting/Outdoor-Related Commands

1. Hunt

2. Flush

3. Track

4. Hold point

5. Retrieve bird

6. Hike

7. Release

Herding Commands

1. Away (go away)

2. Come by (circle right)

3. Look back

4. Steady

5. Lie down

6. That’ll do (stop work)

7. Gather

8. Walk up

9. Hold sheep

10. Balance the herd

Protection/Guarding Commands

1. Guard

2. Watch

3. Bite

4. Hold

5. Release

6. Protect

7. Search area

8. Track intruder

Fun/Novelty Commands

1. Dance

2. Spin

3. Bow

4. Play dead

5. Crawl

6. Backflip

7. Jump through hoop

8. Balance treat

9. Wave

10. Snuggle

Home-Related Commands

1. Get leash

2. Bring toy

3. Get your bowl

4. Get the ball

5. Fetch remote

6. Fetch newspaper

7. Fetch shoes

8. Close drawer

9. Open drawer

10. Go potty

Verbal Cues for Emotions/States

1. Good boy/girl

2. Easy

3. Calm

4. Relax

5. Slow

6. Gentle

7. Careful

8. Be nice

9. Settle

10. Let’s go

Tricks and Advanced Commands

1. Find (a person)

2. Peekaboo

3. Hide and seek

4. Jump on (furniture)

5. Get down

6. Push

7. Pull (a wagon)

8. Skateboard

9. Close (object)

10. Retrieve wallet

Commands for Assistance/Guide Dogs

1. Lead me

2. Find door

3. Find chair

4. Find stairs

5. Find elevator

6. Find curb

7. Forward (guide)

8. Stop (guide)

9. Left (guide)

10. Right (guide)

Travel-Related Commands

1. Car ride

2. Get in

3. Get out

4. Front seat

5. Back seat

6. Wait in car

7. Come out (from car)

8. Walk

9. Lead

10. Stay by side

Health and Grooming Commands

1. Brush

2. Bathe

3. Teeth

4. Nail clip

5. Ear clean

6. Paw clean

7. Dry

8. Sit still

9. Stay calm

10. Take medicine

Emotional Reinforcement Commands

1. Love you

2. Good job

3. Sweet dog

4. Happy

5. Comfort

6. Rest

Safety Commands

1. Watch out

2. Careful

3. Stop

4. Hold on

5. Move back

6. Cross (street)

7. Come here (for recall)

8. Leave danger

9. Drop dangerous object

Scent/Medical Detection Commands

1. Detect sugar level

2. Find allergen

3. Alert to seizure

4. Alert to heart issue

5. Smell (specific scent)

6. Search for lost person

7. Track scent

8. Indicate change in scent

9. Find medication

10. Alert to odor

Commands to Focus Attention

1. Look at me

2. Focus

3. Pay attention

4. Eyes on me

5. Listen

6. Stay alert

7. Watch me

8. Ready

9. On alert

10. Check surroundings

Fun/Play Commands

1. Tug

2. Chase

3. Fetch toy

4. Find ball

5. Get Frisbee

6. Find squeaky toy

7. Go play

8. Play with friend

9. Tag

10. Go wild

Extra Commands for Training-Specific Tasks

1. Line up

2. Stay behind

3. Find left hand

4. Find right hand

5. Follow me

6. Go ahead

7. Pick up trash

8. Bring bucket

9. Go around

10. Go under

Dogs, especially those used in working roles like service dogs or police dogs, can learn even more nuanced or specialized commands. The key is consistent training and clear communication.

Teaching Each Command

Basic Commands

Sit: Hold a treat close to your dog's nose and move your hand up, allowing their head to follow the treat and causing their bottom to lower. Once they're in a sitting position, say "Sit," give them the treat, and share affection. Repeat this sequence a few times every day.

Intermediate Commands

Fetch: Start by throwing a toy and saying "Fetch." When your Doodle picks it up, call them back. Use treats and praise when they return with the toy, gradually reducing treats as they learn the command.

Advanced Commands

Speak: Encourage your dog to speak by showing them a treat and teasing them slightly until they bark. Say "Speak" as they do, and immediately reward them. Practice consistently until they associate the command with barking.

Common Mistakes to Avoid During Training

1. Inconsistency: Using different words for the same command can confuse your dog. Stick to one word or phrase for each command.

2. Lack of Patience: Training can be frustrating, especially if progress is slow. Remember that patience is key.

3. Overuse of Treats: While treats are excellent motivators, relying too heavily on them can lead to dependency. Gradually transition to praise and affection.

The Importance of Consistency and Patience

Consistency and patience are the cornerstones of successful dog training. Providing regular training sessions and maintaining consistent command usage will help reinforce behaviors. Be patient and allow your Doodle time to understand and respond to commands. Celebrate small victories and progress along the way.

Reinforcing Positive Behavior and Discouraging Negative Behavior

Positive reinforcement is an effective way to instill good behavior in your dog. Use treats, praise, and affection to reward desired behaviors. For negative behaviors, use gentle corrections without resorting to harsh punishment. Consistency in responses helps your Doodle understand what is acceptable.

Additional Training Resources and Tools for Stokeshire Designer Doodles Owners

• Training Classes: Consider enrolling your Doodle in a local obedience class to learn in a structured environment.

• Online Tutorials: Websites and platforms like this one.

• Books and Guides: Invest in training books focused on positive reinforcement and specific to Doodle breeds.

• AI Trainer: Use our very own assistant!

Conclusion

A well-trained Stokeshire Designer Doodle not only enhances your life but also ensures a happier, more fulfilling existence for your dog. Training fosters a deeper bond, reduces stress, and leads to a more harmonious household. Start with the basics and gradually progress to more advanced commands, always remembering that patience and consistency are key. Ready to transform your Doodle into a well-behaved superstar? Begin your training adventure today and enjoy the rewards for years to come.