Sheet: Teaching "Sit Pretty"

🎒Preparation▼

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Treats

Very tasty, small size

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Non-slip floor

Rug or grass

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Starting position: The dog must absolutely be in the "Sit" position, facing you.

🎯The luring phase (step by step)▼

The approach

Hold the treat right in front of the dog's nose.

The lift

Slowly raise your hand upwards and slightly backwards (towards their ears).

The movement

The dog will lift their nose and take their front paws off the floor to reach the treat.

The reward

As soon as the front paws leave the floor, say "Sit pretty!" and give the treat immediately. At first, do not look for a full extension.

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Key to success: Reward every bit of progress, however small. At first, simply lifting the paws is enough.

🗣️Introducing the voice cue▼

Once the dog lifts their paws as soon as they see your hand rise:

Linking the word

Say "Sit pretty!" (or "Up", "Beg") at the moment you start to raise your hand.

Stabilising

Say "Sit pretty!" and reward as soon as they steady their balance, even for a second.

🎓Fading the lure▼

Empty hand

Make the raising movement with your empty hand (or just one finger up).

Delayed reward

Reward the dog with a treat from your other hand once they are in position.

Building duration

Wait one second longer with each repetition before giving the reward, to work on holding the position.

💡Final tips▼

Body shape: This exercise is harder for very long dogs (such as the Dachshund) or very heavy ones. Respect each animal's physical limits.
Balance: If the dog tries to lean on your hands or legs, move back slightly. They need to find their own centre of gravity.
Hand height: Do not raise your hand too high, or the dog may stand right up on their hind legs, which is not the aim.
Health: Do not offer this exercise to dogs with back or hip problems, as it puts pressure on the lumbar vertebrae.

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Contraindication: This exercise is not recommended for dogs with joint problems (back, hips). If in doubt, consult your vet.