Commands & Cues

Bottom touching the ground with duration.

• GermanSitz
• DutchZit
• FrenchAssis
• CzechSedni

Belly touching the ground with duration.

• GermanPlatz
• DutchAf / Lig
• FrenchCouché
• CzechLehni

All four paws within a defined boundary with duration.

Jump into, onto, or over something as a single action.

Recall command used to return to the handler.

• GermanHier
• DutchHier
• FrenchIci
• CzechKe Mně / Sem

Dog's shoulder aligned with handler's leg while maintaining connection.

• GermanFuss
• DutchVolg
• FrenchAu Pied
• CzechK Noze

Entering and settling into the crate.

Removing from unwanted positions.

Stopping unwanted choices or behaviors before they happen.

Acknowledgement of success without creating reward anticipation.

Marks a successful behavior that receives reinforcement.

Marks an unwanted behavior or choice in the moment.

Hold current position and location until released.

• GermanBleib
• DutchBlijf
• FrenchPas Bouger

Pause before proceeding (doorways, curbs, car doors) without full stay duration.

Release an item already in the mouth.

• GermanAus
• DutchLos
• FrenchLaisse / Stop

Relax into a down and disengage, longer-duration calm state.

Direct eye contact with the handler, ignoring distractions.

Interrupts and stops a behavior in progress.

• GermanNein

Ends the current command and releases the dog from position.

Redirect and move away from something, leash pressure cue.

Stop vocalizing on cue.

Send the dog to a specific resting spot (like Place, less formal).

Vocalize on command.

• GermanGib Laut
• DutchBlaf
• CzechŠtěkej

Stand square on all four feet, used for exams/grooming and as a position command.

• GermanSteh
• DutchSta
• FrenchDebout

Directs the dog away from the handler toward a target or direction.

• GermanVoraus

Position change commanded from a distance without the handler approaching.

Dog moves backward away from the handler on cue.

Nose or paw touches a hand or target object, used to build precision and redirection.

Dog moves around an object or the handler to a heel position.

Retrieve a specific named item and bring it back to the handler.

• GermanBring
• FrenchRapporte
• CzechAport

Watch / guard command used in protection work to hold and guard.

• GermanPass Auf / Voran
• DutchVoor U

Bite / grip command used in protection work.

• DutchPak

Forward movement while remaining in a down position.

• GermanKriechen

Directs the dog to begin working a search pattern (area, article, or person).

• GermanSuch
• DutchZoek
• FrenchCherche

Trained final response (sit, down, or point) marking a source find.

Asks the dog to lead the handler back to a found source.

Brace against the handler to provide balance support.

Position behind or beside the handler to create space in public.

Position in front of the handler to create space or alert.

Settle underneath a chair, table, or handler's legs in public settings.

Nose-push a button or switch (e.g., light switch, accessibility button).