How to Train a Dog to Lie Down

Training your dog to lie down is one of the most useful commands you can teach. Not only does it help calm your dog, but it also teaches them to be more relaxed and controlled in various situations.

Whether you're trying to settle an excitable puppy or teach an older dog a new trick, we’ll walk you through simple and effective steps to help your dog master this essential command. 

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Teaching your dog to lie down is more than just a simple trick; it offers a range of benefits that can improve their behaviour and your daily routine. Here are some key advantages:

Now that you know why this skill is so important, let’s get started with the training process. Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to help you teach your dog how to lie down.

Before you can teach your dog to lie down, it’s a good idea to start with the sit command. This is because the sitting position is a natural precursor to lying down. If your dog already knows how to sit, they’ll have a better understanding of what’s expected when you move onto the lying down command.

To teach your dog to lie down, you need to have their full attention. You can use a treat to lure them into the right position. For example, hold the treat in your hand and bring it close to your dog’s nose. Let them smell it, but don’t let them eat it yet. The key is to guide them gently into the down position. You don’t want to force them, just encourage them to follow the treat with their nose.

With the treat in your hand, slowly move it from your dog’s nose down to the floor. This should cause your dog to lower their body to follow the treat. As they do this, say the command, such as “down” or “lie down,” in a calm, clear voice. If they lie down after following the treat, immediately reward them with praise and the treat. Positive reinforcement is key when teaching a dog to lie down.

Training your dog to lie down requires repetition. It’s important to stay consistent with your command and reward system. Don’t worry if your dog doesn’t get it right away, keep practising in short sessions (around 5-10 minutes). Over time, your dog will start to associate the command “down” with the action of lying down.

Once your dog has got the hang of lying down, you can start adding duration. Instead of rewarding them immediately, wait a few seconds before giving them the treat. Over time, this will help your dog learn to stay in the down position for longer periods. If your dog gets up too soon, gently guide them back into the down position and try again. If they stay down, reward them with praise and treats.

Once your dog is reliably lying down on command in a quiet setting, it’s time to practice in different environments. Try it in your garden, at the park, or inside your home with distractions around. This will help your dog generalise the command and understand that it applies in all situations, not just when there’s no one around.

As your dog becomes more consistent in lying down, you can start to reduce the frequency of treats. Transition to using praise or a favourite toy as a reward instead. This is an important step in helping your dog rely on positive reinforcement without becoming dependent on treats.

Teaching a puppy to lie down is often easier than training an older dog. Puppies are more likely to respond to gentle guidance and are usually eager to please. Start with the basics: sit, then lie down. Keep training sessions short to accommodate your puppy's limited attention span, and remember to be patient. Puppies have lots of energy and might get distracted easily, so keep training fun and engaging.

The time it takes to train a dog to lie down depends on your dog’s age, temperament, and previous training experience. Some dogs may pick it up quickly, while others might take a little longer.

Generally, most dogs can learn the “lie down” command in about 1-2 weeks if training is consistent. Puppies, in particular, might need a bit more time, but with patience and regular practice, they’ll get there.

Training sessions should be short but frequent. Aim for about 5-10 minutes per session, and practice a few times throughout the day. Short sessions keep your dog engaged and prevent them from getting bored or frustrated. It’s better to train consistently for a few minutes each day than to have long, drawn-out sessions that might overwhelm your dog.

If you’re struggling to get your dog to lie down, it could be due to a few reasons:

If you’re still having difficulty, don’t hesitate to reach out for professional help or consider taking our Dog Training Diploma Course to gain more skills and understanding.

The word "lie" is the grammatically correct term when referring to a dog going from a standing or sitting position to the ground. So, it’s "lie down," not "lay down." But don’t worry, your dog won’t mind what you say, as long as you use the same phrase consistently!

If your dog is getting up before you’ve given the reward, gently guide them back into the down position and wait for a few seconds before rewarding them. Gradually increase the time your dog stays down before offering a reward. Be patient, and remember to use positive reinforcement when they remain in the down position.

Treats are a great motivator, but over time, you can transition to using praise, toys, or other rewards your dog loves. Start by gradually reducing the number of treats and replacing them with verbal praise or petting when your dog follows the command. This helps prevent your dog from becoming dependent on treats.

Some dogs may be hesitant to lie down on hard floors or surfaces. If this is the case, try practising on a softer surface, such as a rug or mat, where your dog may feel more comfortable. Once your dog is consistently lying down on the soft surface, gradually transition to other areas of your home with different floor types.

If your dog is consistently refusing to lie down, it may be a sign of discomfort, fear, or confusion. Ensure the environment is calm and free of distractions, and check that your dog isn’t experiencing any physical discomfort. If they continue to resist, consider seeking the help of a professional dog trainer who can guide you through more tailored techniques.

If you're ready to deepen your understanding and become a confident, knowledgeable trainer, consider taking the Dog Training Diploma Course with Centre of Excellence. Whether you're a dog owner, aspiring trainer, or simply passionate about canine behaviour, this course offers comprehensive guidance suitable for all levels. And right now, you can enrol for just £29.