Top 6 Essential Dog Commands for a Safer, Happier Pup

dogs sitting in doors — Four dogs sitting indoors, one wearing a red bowtie.

Dogs are smart, lovable goofballs, but let’s be honest, sometimes they need a little direction because they make choices that are, well … questionable.

Whether it’s preventing a potential disaster, eating mystery objects off the sidewalk, sprinting after a squirrel with Olympic-level determination, or ensuring good social manners, training makes life with your pup much smoother (and safer!).

These are not the only commands worth teaching, but they are some of the top commands every dog should know to stay safe. Keep in mind, training isn’t just about obedience! It’s about building trust and communication between you and your dog. Plus, it’s a great way to bond and have fun together (with plenty of high-value snacks and praise)!

Next, let’s review the six must-know commands for Fido to be a “good boy!”

1. Sit and Stay

Two of the most basic yet powerful commands! Teaching your dog to sit and stay can prevent jumping on guests, bolting out the door, and more. A solid "stay" also comes in handy when you need your pup to pause before crossing a street or to chill while you clean up a spill (especially if it’s food-related!).

Why it matters: Dogs who know “sit” and “stay” are less likely to run into dangerous situations.
Pro Tip: Reward calm patient behavior by gradually increasing the length of the stay before rewarding.
Expert tips on teaching sit & stay from the American Kennel Club’s Sit & Stay Guide.

Two dogs sitting on the floor, basking in the sunlight. — *Two Small Dogs Doing a Perfect Sit and Stay*

2. Come (aka Recall)

two dogs run across artificial grass at a park while a person sits on a bench in the background. — Dogs playing and training at a dog park

Has your dog ever ignored you at the park while chasing a squirrel? A reliable recall can save your pup’s life, whether they’re about to dash into a busy street or wander too far off-leash while hiking.

Why it matters: If your dog comes when called, you can prevent potential accidents and dangerous situations by keeping them close when needed.

Pro Tip: Make coming to you the best thing ever by using high-value treats, excitement, and praise every time they listen. Start training in a low-distraction environment to successfully train and reinforce the command before slowly increasing the distractions.
Expert tips on teaching come/recall from the American Kennel Club.

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3. Watch Me

Distractions are everywhere, including squirrels, bicycles, people, other dogs/animals, and that smelly piece of trash they desperately want to investigate. “Watch me” helps your dog focus on you instead of the chaos around them.

Why it matters: Helps refocus your dog in situations where their attention might lead to trouble.
Pro Tip: Start with a treat near your eyes, say “Watch me,” and reward the moment they make eye contact.
Expert tips on teaching watch me from the American Kennel Club.

*Dog Doing "Watch Me" with a Dog Trainer*

4. Leave It and Drop It

Dog walking while doing the leave it command

Let’s be honest: dogs put some questionable things in their mouths with their uncanny ability to find and eat the worst things!

"Leave it" stops them before they grab something dangerous (like chicken bones, your expensive shoes, or worse!), while "Drop it" makes sure they release whatever they managed to snatch in the first place.

Why it matters: Prevents your dog from eating harmful or dangerous foods or objects and keeps your belongings intact or chasing things they shouldn’t.
Pro Tip: Reward generously at first; your dog must understand that giving something up leads to something even better!
Expert tips on teaching leave it and drop it from the American Kennel Club.

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Final Thoughts: Training for Safety and Peace of Mind

Again, these are not the only commands to teach your dog, but they are some of the top commands every dog should know to keep you and them safe!

Inquiring minds want to know, which command has saved you from disaster? Or what’s your dog’s strongest command? Or, let’s be honest, which one are they still working on?

Share your stories in the comments; we love a good doggie tale!