The Must-Train Commands for Giant Breeds: Essential Skills for a Well-Mannered Big Dog
Giant breed dogs are big, lovable, and sometimes… a little too enthusiastic. 💪 A 10-lb puppy jumping on guests? Cute. A 150-lb Great Dane knocking over Grandma? Not so much.
Training is not optional when you have a big dog—it’s essential for safety, control, and a happy, well-adjusted pup. Whether you’re raising a Great Dane, Mastiff, Saint Bernard, or another gentle giant, teaching these commands will make life easier for both of you.
Let’s dive into the must-train commands for giant breed dogs and why they matter.
1️⃣ Sit & Stay: The Foundation of Good Manners
Why It’s a Must
A well-timed sit can prevent:
✔️ Jumping on people
✔️ Rushing through doors
✔️ Getting overly excited in public
Teaching stay alongside sit adds another layer of control—helping your big dog pause, listen, and wait for your cue.
Real-Life Use:
🐾 At the vet – Keeps them calm during check-ups.
🐾 When greeting guests – Prevents accidental knockdowns.
🐾 Before mealtime – Reinforces patience and self-control.
2️⃣ Leave It & Drop It: Keeping Your Dog Safe
Why It’s a Must
Big dogs can reach countertops, trash cans, and anything on the floor. Teaching leave it and drop it stops them from eating or grabbing things they shouldn’t.
Real-Life Use:
🚫 Prevent food theft – No more stolen sandwiches!
🚫 Avoid dangerous objects – Stops them from chewing shoes, toxic foods, or foreign objects.
🚫 Helps with resource guarding – Encourages them to give up items willingly.
🔹 Tip: Always trade with a high-value reward when teaching drop it to make it a positive experience!
3️⃣ Come: The Lifesaving Recall Command
Why It’s a Must
A big dog ignoring you can be a disaster—especially if they’re off-leash. A strong recall is one of the most important safety commands you can teach.
Real-Life Use:
🐾 Prevent accidents – Stops them from running into traffic.
🐾 Off-leash safety – Ensures they return when called.
🐾 Dog park control – Helps manage interactions with other dogs.
🔹 Tip: Make coming to you the best thing ever! Use enthusiastic praise, treats, or toys to reinforce it.
4️⃣ Off: No Jumping or Counter Surfing
Why It’s a Must
Jumping is dangerous for a giant breed—one excited leap can knock over a person (or swipe your dinner off the counter!). Teaching "off" keeps them respectful of boundaries.
Real-Life Use:
🚫 No jumping on guests.
🚫 No paws on the counter (or stealing food!).
🚫 No claiming the couch without permission.
🔹 Tip: Reward all four paws on the floor to encourage good behavior.
5️⃣ Wait: Stop Rushing Through Doors, Stairs, & Cars
Why It’s a Must
Big dogs love to charge ahead, but an untrained dog rushing through a door or leaping from a car can lead to injury or accidents.
Real-Life Use:
🐾 Before going outside – Prevents bolting through the door.
🐾 At the top of stairs – Avoids tripping hazards.
🐾 Before exiting the car – Keeps them from jumping out into traffic.
🔹 Tip: Practice "wait" at home using a leash for control before applying it in real-world scenarios.
Bonus Command: Heel / Loose Leash Walking
Why It’s a Must
A 150-lb dog dragging you down the street isn’t just frustrating—it’s a safety hazard. Teaching heel or loose leash walking makes walks enjoyable and controlled.
Real-Life Use:
🐾 Less pulling = safer walks.
🐾 Easier control in busy areas.
🐾 Builds better focus and engagement.
🔹 Tip: Use high-value treats and reward when your dog walks nicely beside you.
Final Thoughts: Training = A Safer, Happier Big Dog
Training isn’t about control—it’s about building trust, safety, and a strong bond with your dog.
The Essentials to Remember:
✅ Start training early—puppies learn faster!
✅ Keep sessions short and fun to keep engagement high.
✅ Use positive reinforcement (praise, treats, or play) to encourage good behavior.
✅ Be consistent—repetition is key!
By teaching these must-know commands, you’re setting your giant breed up for a safe, well-mannered, and happy life. 🐕💛
What’s the most useful command your big dog knows? Share your training wins in the comments! 👇
