basic-obedience

# Basic Obedience Teach foundation commands (sit, stay, come, heel, down) using positive reinforcement and marker training. ## When to Use - A new puppy (8+ weeks) is ready for foundation training - An adult dog lacks reliable basic commands - A rescue or rehomed dog needs to learn the household's command vocabulary - Before advancing to more complex behaviors or off-leash work - When existing commands have degraded and need re-establishing ## Inputs - **Required**: A dog (any breed, any age 8+ weeks) - **Required**: High-value treats (small, soft, quickly consumed) - **Optional**: Clicker or verbal marker word (e.g., "yes") - **Optional**: 6-foot leash and flat collar or harness - **Optional**: Quiet training space with minimal distractions (initially) ## Procedure ### Step 1: Establish the Marker The marker bridges the gap between the desired behavior and the reward. ```text Marker Training Protocol: 1. Choose your marker: clicker (precise) or verbal "yes" (always available) 2. Charge the marker (10-15 reps): - Mark (click or "yes") then immediately deliver a treat - No behavior required — just marker → treat, marker → treat - Dog should begin orienting toward you at the sound of the marker 3. Test: mark when the dog is looking away. Does the dog turn toward you expecting a treat? If yes, the marker is charged. Timing Rule: The marker must occur WITHIN 1 second of the desired behavior. Late marking teaches the wrong behavior. Mark → then reach for the ...