Dog Training Guides
Straight answers to the questions Central New York dog owners ask us most, from the professional trainers at Sit Means Sit in Cicero. Each guide starts with a quick answer, then explains how to fix the problem step by step.
Everyday Manners
How to Stop a Dog From Pulling on the Leash
Dogs pull because pulling works: it gets them where they want to go.
How to Stop a Dog From Jumping on People
Dogs jump to greet people and get attention, and it usually works.
How to Teach a Dog to Come When Called
Teach a reliable recall by making “come” the best thing that ever happens to your dog.
How to Stop a Dog From Barking Too Much
First figure out why your dog barks: alerting, demanding attention, boredom, anxiety or reactivity.
Off-Leash Dog Training: Can Any Dog Learn It?
Most dogs can learn to be reliable off leash, regardless of breed, but it takes a strong recall, a solid “place” and down-stay, clear communication at a distance, and gradual practice around real distractions.
Puppies
How to Potty Train a Puppy
Potty train a puppy by taking it out often (after waking, eating, drinking and playing, and every 1 to 2 hours for young pups), going to the same spot, rewarding it right after it goes, supervising closely or crating it when you can’t watch, and cleaning accidents with an enzyme cleaner.
How to Crate Train a Puppy
Crate train a puppy by choosing a crate just big enough to stand, turn and lie down in, making it a great place with meals, treats and chews, building up time inside gradually while you’re home, and only letting the puppy out when it’s quiet.
How to Stop a Puppy From Biting
Puppy biting is normal, but it needs to be shaped.
Behavior Problems
Why Does My Dog Lunge and Bark at Other Dogs?
Lunging and barking at other dogs on walks is called leash reactivity.
Separation Anxiety in Dogs: Signs and Training Help
Separation anxiety is distress when a dog is left alone.
How to Train a Rescue Dog
Give a new rescue dog time to decompress, with a quiet space and a predictable routine.
Choosing Training
How Long Does Dog Training Take?
Most dogs learn basic commands in a few weeks.
How Much Does Dog Training Cost in Syracuse?
Dog training costs in the Syracuse area depend on the type of program (group classes, private lessons, day training or board and train), your dog’s needs, the number of sessions, and what’s included, such as equipment or lifetime support.
How to Choose a Dog Trainer in Syracuse
Choose a dog trainer who has real experience with problems like yours, can show you trained dogs and real results, explains their methods clearly, teaches you to handle your own dog, trains in real-world settings, and offers ongoing support.
Is Remote Collar Training Humane?
When done properly, remote collar training can be a humane, effective way to communicate with a dog.
Prefer Help From a Pro?
Every guide here is something we help dogs with every day. Book a free evaluation and we’ll build a plan for your dog.