Teaching Your Dog To Stay

Teach Your Dog To Be Well Behaved Around People & Other Dogs, and Have Them Obey The House Rules...Even When You're Not Around...

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Teaching Your Dog To Stay

Teaching Your Dog to Stay on Your Command…

Teaching your dog the "stay" command is easier than you might think. By using what is known as positive reinforcement, we can communicate effectively with our dog and allow them to associate the command with the desired action. The most effective way to do this is by using a combination of special treats and praise.

Start by teaching your dog a release command such as "free" or "okay". Once your dog understands this command, get them to sit or lie down. Now place your hand with your palm open in front of your dog's nose and give the "stay" command. Remember to state this firmly.

At the exact moment your dog exhibits the behaviour you want, say "good" in an upbeat tone and give the release command before giving your dog a treat and praising them. Even if your dog only stayed for a second or two, still praise them. Praising them quickly for performing the desired action is most effective; if you leave it longer your dog may become confused.

Once your dog has mastered this; start practicing by lengthening the amount of time your dog "stays" and gradually move further and further away. After every successful "stay", be sure to give the release command. This will help you in lengthening the amount of time your dog stays by associating the action with the word.

Once you have mastered getting your dog to stay while you're still in the same room, try getting them to stay and moving to a different room. Remember to start slowly and build up gradually, and phase out the treats as your dog masters the command. Train in 5-10 minute sessions a couple of times a day. Using positive reinforcement is one of the most effective ways of teaching your dog quickly.

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