How to Train a Dog Stay

You'll need:

Some tasty treats that your dog loves. Break them into very tiny pieces.

A quiet, distraction-free area. This could be your backyard, a park, or even your living room.

Step 2: Start The Training

1. Hold a treat close to your dog's nose. You should be holding the treat so it's above your dog's head to encourage eye contact.

2. As your dog looks at the treat, say "stay" while keeping your hand still.

3. Start to slowly raise and move your hand forward while keeping your palm toward your dog.

4. If your dog steps forward with you:

- Say "no" and move your hand back while keeping it above your dog's head.

- Repeat steps 1-3.

5. Each time your dog doesn't move when you lift your hand, say "stay" again, give it a treat, and use your best "good dog" voice.

Step 3: Increase the Duration

This is where the tiny piece of treat works to your advantage!

1. Once your dog can hold the "stay" position for a few seconds, wait until they break the stay, reward them with a very small treat, then cue the stay again to repeat the process.

2. Each time your dog stays in place for a bit longer, praise and reward immediately with that yummy treat.

3. Over time, your dog should be able to hold the stay without moving for increasing periods of time.

Step 4: Add Distance and Distraction

Once your dog can stay from short to medium lengths of time without moving, add in distractions to make the exercise more challenging (like another person or animal that may catch their attention).

Keep in mind that you can go back to step 2 or step 3 if you need to take it down a notch. This is a gradual process, so keep the sessions short and positive!