Finding out your dog has a lower intelligence score isn’t a setback; it is an invitation to build a more intentional bond. Canine intelligence is multifaceted, and a dog who scores low in Problem-Solving often excels in Trainability, making them an excellent partner for guided learning. 
The Sit to Start Philosophy
To help your dog thrive, adopt the Sit to Start methodology. This approach provides the structure and direction dogs naturally crave by teaching them to work for resources. Dogs don’t process “right vs. wrong”; they navigate the world through Association (identifying what is safe or dangerous) and Consequence (discovering what works and what doesn’t). By using life rewards—like opening the door for a walk or serving a meal—as reinforcement, you establish yourself as a clear, safe leader.
Your First Win: Mastering the Sit
Teaching a reliable sit is our foundational communication tool. Use this precise three-step process:
Step One: Say It – Give the command in a cheerful tone. Say it only once, then pause for “one-one thousand, two-one thousand” to allow for cognitive processing.
Step Two: Show It – Lure your dog by moving a treat from the nose up and back toward the rump. Keep the lure very close to the snout; if you move too fast or too far away, your dog may lose interest and give up.
Step Three: Pay It – Use the reward marker “Yes” the precise second the rump hits the ground. This word acts as a bridge, marking the exact moment the reward was won.
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