Guide Dogs for the Blind K9 Buddy Curriculum: 
K9 Buddy Verbal Cues

The following is a list of verbal cues that your K9 Buddy dog has learned. Important training tips:
	•	Be consistent! Dogs are lifelong learners and need repetition to maintain behaviors.
	•	Keep training sessions short to keep your dog engaged.
	•	Say the dog’s name before all cues. Example: "Juno, come."
	•	Give each cue only once to maintain effectiveness. An occasional repeat cue is acceptable if dog does not respond.
	•	Have fun and utilize praise and food reward for good responses!

SIT: Cue used to have the dog place it’s rear haunches on the floor.

DOWN: Cue for the dog to lie on the ground or floor.

LET’S GO: Cue to have the dog walk or move with you, at your left side, on a loose leash, without pulling. (relaxed heel with more casual positioning)

HEEL: Positional cue that indicates to the dog to return to or maintain position at your left side. This cue can be used stationary or in motion.

COME: Cue to have the dog come to you when called, allowing handler to touch the collar.

STAND: Cue to have your dog stand and wait for grooming or during a vet exam.

WAIT: An informal stay cue, usually used when the dog will be expected to move again soon, (ie at doors, getting in and out of a vehicle)

OKAY: Release cue. Example: to let them know you are no longer requiring them to “stay” and they may get up now.

KENNEL: Cue used as you place the dog in a crate, under a table, in a small space or into a vehicle.

DO YOUR BUSINESS: Cue to encourage the dog to urinate or defecate.

THAT’S ENOUGH: Dog will stop a current activity upon the cue. Relates to playing a game or interacting with a toy (dog should release toy upon verbal cue).

SIT - STAY: Cues used in progression to have the dog stay in a sit position for a reasonable length of time. This is a formal cue and you will need to use the “okay” cue to release the dog.

DOWN - STAY: Cues used in progression to have the dog stay in a down position.

GO TO BED: Dog goes to a designated bed or mat, lies down on the bed, and remains on the bed for a reasonable length of time until given another cue. Note this will need training in your unique environment before completely generalized.

Attending a reputable obedience class is a great way to maintain your dog’s training.