Training and Care 
71 
prefer the dog at heel, in any event the dog must 
always follow exactly the movement of the trainer 
and sudden right or left angles or reverses must be 
instantly followed by the dog. The length of train¬ 
ing for each exercise depends upon the individual 
as soon as he acquires it, one can proceed to the 
next step, but each exercise should be rehearsed at 
least once or twice daily. 
The next step is to teach the dog to sit upon com¬ 
mand. The dog is held by the leash close to the 
collar, and with the other hand is forced to a sitting- 
posture with a firm pressure over the loin, repeat¬ 
ing in the meantime the word “Sit.” Any attempt 
to change this position is .immediately frustrated and 
the dog is constantly admonished to “Sit.” After 
the dog holds this position it is well to move around 
him always warning him to “Sit” while the trainer 
moves farther away. At first it is best not to jen- 
circle the dog for it will tempt him to get up in 
order to follow your movements, but after the dog 
holds his position the trainer must walk around him 
and finally entirely out of his sight. After the dog 
has successfully done his part it is obvious, of 
course, that he should be petted and praised for it, 
and after difficult exercises should receive a slight 
reward in the shape of a tidbit. These attentions 
judiciously bestowed keep up the interest of the dog. 
After the “Sit” is mastered, the next step is the 
command to lie down. Make the dog assume the 
“Sit” position then grasp his forelegs with one hand 
pulling them forward and at the same time exert 
a downward pressure with the other hand on the 
