Free guide · The shared vocabulary
Nine dog training cues the whole family can share.
Agree on the cue, the behavior it means, and what follows. Consistency comes from the whole pattern, not from repeating the word more loudly.
Nice
Meaning: A marker: that exact behavior earned a reward.
Use it well: Say it at the moment the dog does the wanted behavior, then reward.
Sit
Meaning: Put your bottom on the floor.
Use it well: Ask once when sitting is a realistic, comfortable response.
Come
Meaning: Move all the way to the person calling.
Use it well: Reward arrival generously. Avoid using it before something the dog consistently dislikes.
Off
Meaning: Move paws or body away from that surface or person.
Use it well: Give the dog a clear alternative, then reward four paws on the floor.
Give
Meaning: Release the item into a hand or onto the floor.
Use it well: Trade for something worthwhile. Do not chase or pry the mouth open.
Wait
Meaning: Pause here until the next cue.
Use it well: Keep the first pauses very short and reward before the dog breaks position.
Bed
Meaning: Go to the named resting place.
Use it well: Build value there with food, chews, and calm releases.
Potty
Meaning: This is the place and time to eliminate.
Use it well: Say it quietly in the chosen area; reward after the dog finishes.
Free
Meaning: The current request is finished.
Use it well: Use the same release word so the dog knows when waiting or staying ends.