1.  Come when called

If our two legged counterparts want us to come, all we ask is that you give us some form of incentive.   I cannot resist the temptation of a tasty treat, so I will come when Lady Shiraz can deliver the treat.  Now here's the trick:  as I commence my little journey towards the treat (uh...sorry I meant Lady Shiraz), I need to be praised and encouraged to make my efforts worth my while.   This will also provide me incentive to repeat this action when called at a later time, because I can count on (a) receiving a treat and (b) receiving undue praise and attention.

2.  Sit on command

So let's face it, I'm a Border Collie and intelligent by nature.  Whilst other hounds may have trouble following the basic command of sitting, I picked it up in no time at all - again due to my inherent brilliance. 

Lady Shiraz taught me to sit by coupling this oral request with a physical hand action.  (it is also funny to see her eyes bulge when giving me this command!)  In no time at all, I understood what was required of me.  Of course I milked this so called "training" opportunity for me, and I "trained" Lady to accompany the request with a treat!  So on approach, I would pause as though to consider the request.  Lady would hold a treat above my nose, which provided great incentive to sit, not to mention the adrenalin rush I received from the pure anticipation of getting my treat. 

3.  Sit and remain seated

So you've got us to sit.  That's easy enough.  But what next?  When Lady Shiraz would make me sit, there was always uncertainty as to how long she wanted me for.  All sorts of terrible nasties would go through my mind; "am I in trouble"?  "did she find the landmine in the backyard?", "does she want my paw? - how about a lick?" 

Lady taught me to stay by uttering the words "Stay.  Stay Brando" and pointing her longest finger at me towards the floor.  Of course I would oblige.  But then what?  How long could this game go on for?  Using my initiative, I would slowly rise to my feet, only to hear a sharp "ah. Stay" and that pointy finger again.  This stopped me dead in my tracks.  Again out of courtesy I would offer my paw, but it seemed Lady Shiraz was more interested in asserting her "dominance" over me than in playing with me.  We did this over and over again, until I finally gave in and let her win!

Try my tips and let me know how you go with your canine.  Remember - practice makes paw-fect!