A puppy that can sit on command is less likely to seem aggressive. They are easier to control, and are much nicer to be around.

Hand signals are the key to teach your puppy to sit. Start by placing a small smelly treat in your hand. Grasp the treat between your thumb and forefinger with your palm up and the other fingers extended. Start with the treat near the floor, as your dog sniffs the treat and tries to get it, move the treat off of the floor and up toward the nose level of your dog. The dog will naturally follow the treat. As you raise the treat, the dog’s head and upper body with rise. The dog should naturally sit, to get itself in the best position to get the treat. When their rear hits the ground, in a loud clear voice say “sit” and give them the treat. Continue this process, and be sure to give the command and reward. It shouldn’t take long before the dog catches on. With time they will begin to understand that a hand held up palm up, with a rising motion will mean sit. Eventually they should be able to sit with either the hand signal or the voice command. Always reward positive behavior with praise.