What Are Success Commands & How Do I Use Them?
Written By Nikki Johnson, APDT & AKC CGC, from Pickles Playland
Success commands are an incredible tool in many aspects of dog training and behavioral work. These are commands that your dog already knows well—ones they perform reliably and consistently whenever asked. We call them “success commands” because they set your dog up for success by allowing them to demonstrate behaviors they’ve mastered.
What Are Success Commands?
The most common success commands are basic obedience commands such as:
Sit
Stay
Leave it
Shake / high 5
However, success commands are not limited to just basic obedience. As you and your dog advance in training, success commands can extend to more complex tasks like:
‘Touch’ from a farther distance
Come
Retrieving an item
The more commands your dog learns, the more success commands you can incorporate into your training sessions.
How Do Success Commands Help Your Dog?
Success commands play a crucial role in building your dog’s confidence. Imagine trying to learn a new skill from someone who speaks a completely different language—it’s challenging! For dogs, mastering a command and then getting it right consistently provides a sense of achievement. This boosts their confidence and strengthens their bond with you. Yeah, a great bond is what we all want.
When your dog performs a success command, they feel proud of their accomplishment. And they should! Their brains are not as advanced as ours, and they live very much in the present moment. For them, small successes mean a lot. That’s why celebrating even simple achievements can have a significant impact on their emotional well-being.
How to Use Success Commands in Training
Success commands can be used in various ways to improve your dog’s training experience:
Break Up Training Sessions: If you’re working on a new or challenging command, take breaks to ask your dog for a success command. This gives them a confidence boost and prevents frustration.
Reward for Success: Success commands can act as an instant win for your dog. Praise them enthusiastically when they perform the command correctly to reinforce positive behavior.
Reinforce Positive Associations: Incorporate success commands in stressful or unfamiliar situations to help your dog feel more at ease. For example, asking for a “sit” or “leave it” in a busy environment can redirect their focus and build their confidence.
Maintain Skills Over Time: Even if your dog has mastered certain commands, revisiting them regularly keeps their skills sharp and reinforces your bond.
Success Commands in Daily Life
Using success commands isn’t limited to training sessions. You can weave them into everyday life to keep your dog engaged and confident. For instance:
Praise your dog for going potty on command.
Ask for a “sit” before feeding them or during a walk.
Encourage them to “stay” while you answer the door.
Celebrating these small wins not only keeps their training fresh but also shows your appreciation for their efforts.
Success commands are a simple yet powerful tool in dog training. They’re not just about obedience; they’re about building confidence, strengthening your relationship, and creating a positive learning environment for your dog. By consistently incorporating success commands into your routine, you’ll help your dog feel capable, valued, and eager to learn more. So, start using success commands today and watch your and your dog’s confidence together soar!
