Teaching The "Stay" Command to Your Dog

The "stay" command is also one of the basic commands. It should be taught to your dog only after it knows the "Lay Down" and "Sit" commands. It is not hard to train this command but it requires a bit of patience. 

To teach your dog the "stay" command you will need to make sure your dog understands a "release" command first. This will insure that the dog will know when it's OK to move from the "stay" position.

Here are the steps you will need to teach your dog to lay down on command:

Start by having the dog sit or lie down in front of you.

Using your hand with your open palm facing the dog, put your hand in front of your dog's face (within about 6 inches of it's nose) and give the command "Stay." Repeat the word "Say" and wait a few seconds. When the dog stays, say "Good - Say" and reward with a treat. Give the release command immediately after you give the treat and praise again.

Repeat the training and lengthen the amount of time the dog remains in the "stay" position very gradually. You also need to slowly move farther and farther away from the dog as the time increases until you can get 25-50 feet away. Remember, don't be in a hurry to move away. It is much more important that the dog knows that it needs to stay, before you increase your distance from him. Remember, be patient, this will take some time. Don't forget the praise either. 

When trained correctly, the execution of the "stay" command is a true measure of a well trained, well-mannered, and respectful dog.

As with all training, keep your sessions short. Advanced training should be kept under 10 minutes in length. Always do something that the dog likes to do when the session ends. Playing with the dog's favorite toy or going for a walk will keep your dog interested in training. Because there is a "fun time" following the training, it will make the dog more willing to train well.