Core Obedience
Down
A calm control behavior that unlocks crawl, roll over, and play dead.
Down is a relaxation and impulse-control behavior, not just a position change.
A fluent down supports safer public handling, mat work, and advanced tricks that begin from floor posture.
What this command is
Dog lowers elbows and chest to ground and holds until released.
Estimated time: 4-10 days
Why it matters: Down increases settle behavior and is a prerequisite for multiple advanced trick chains.
Public training steps
Shape floor contact
Mark elbows/chest touching floor from lure.
Success: Dog follows lure into down consistently.
Typical time: 1-3 sessions
Cue and hold
Add cue then gradually build short duration before release.
Success: Dog downs on cue and waits briefly.
Typical time: 3-7 sessions