The Top 3 Training Cues Every Giant Dog Should Know

Training isn’t optional when your dog outweighs your cousin.

We love our gentle giants, but let’s be honest—when your dog can knock over furniture, guests, or unsuspecting toddlers just by turning around, manners matter.

Whether you're raising a Great Dane, Saint Bernard, Mastiff, or any other supersized sweetheart, teaching a few key commands can make life easier, safer, and a lot more peaceful—for both of you.

Here are the top 3 training cues every giant breed dog should know (and why they’re non-negotiable):

1️⃣ Sit & Stay

The foundation for all other good behavior.

Teaching your dog to sit and stay might feel basic, but it’s the backbone of reliable obedience. Whether you're opening the door, greeting a visitor, or stopping for traffic on a walk, a solid sit-stay is one of the best ways to get control fast.

Why it matters for big dogs:

• Prevents jumping, crowding, or bolting through doors

• Sets the tone for calm behavior in busy environments

• Helps your dog focus before moving on to more advanced training

Pro tip: Practice this cue in all kinds of situations—not just at home. A sit-stay in your kitchen is great. A sit-stay outside the vet’s office? Even better.

2️⃣ Place

Your best friend during chaos, commotion, and dinner guests.

“Place” means go to a designated spot (like a bed or mat) and stay there until released. It’s a game-changer for households with kids, deliveries, visitors, or just general daily chaos.

Why it matters for big dogs:

• Keeps your dog out from underfoot during high-energy moments

• Builds impulse control and a sense of calm

• Prevents counter-surfing or barging through the door when someone knocks

Pro tip: Make it fun. Use treats or chews to help your dog relax in their place, and be consistent with the command. The more they love their “spot,” the more likely they are to use it.

3️⃣ Leave It

Because a Great Dane going for a dropped ribeye is a full-blown emergency.

“Leave it” teaches your dog to disengage from something they want—whether it’s food, trash, a squirrel, or someone’s sandwich. This cue can literally save lives, especially when it comes to toxic items or unsafe distractions.

Why it matters for big dogs:

• Helps avoid accidental ingestion of dangerous food or objects

• Prevents conflict with other dogs over toys or treats

• Builds respect for boundaries and control around high-value items

Pro tip: Start with low-stakes items (like a toy or piece of kibble), and work up to more tempting distractions. Reward heavily when they make the choice to walk away.

Final Thoughts: Consistency Over Perfection

You don’t need a perfectly polished obedience routine. But you do need reliability—especially when your dog weighs as much as an adult human.

The good news? Giant breeds are often eager to please. With patience, positive reinforcement, and consistency, your big dog can master these cues and become the calm, well-mannered companion you always dreamed of.

Your knees, your furniture, and your houseguests will thank you.