Add the Verbal Cue "Down"

Use this once your dog reliably lies down on the hand signal alone.

1Start with your dog in front of you.
2Say "down," then lower your hand (palm facing down) toward the ground.
3Mark when your dog's elbows hit the ground, then release the food.
4Feed a few times in position, then give your release cue.
5Fade the food lure by pretending to grab a treat and using the same verbal and physical cues.
6Always give the verbal cue first, wait a beat, then give the physical cue.
7Practice in a variety of environments and surfaces.

Say the verbal cue first, pause, and then lower your hand.