How to Teach Your Labrador to Stay

For years, the Labrador has been one of the most popular dogs in the nation. With their great temperament, Labradors can be one of your loving family members. Teaching your dog to stay makes a happier household for everyone. Read on to learn how to teach your Labrador to stay.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Collar
• Leash
• Dog treats

Sit Stay

1. Make sure the collar and leash are properly connected, then position yourself to the side of your dog. By choosing the right or left side and maintaining that stance each time while training, your dog gains the knowledge of his place by your side.

2. Place your dog into the "Sit" position. If your dog is still learning the "Sit" command, guide her to sit by pressing firmly on her lower back at the base of the tail.

3. Use the hand closest to your dog. Move it in front of your dog's nose--keeping your hand open--and give the "Stay" command. This way, your dog can distinguish that an open hand means the same as the "Stay" command.

4. Tell your dog to "Stay" as you are turning to face him. This enforces the "Sit Stay" command and helps him to associate that word with the action.

5. Praise your dog for completing the "Sit Stay" command. Give your lab a treat to reward her for a successful session.

Down Stay

6. Position yourself to the side of your lab and have him sit.

7. Move in front of your dog so you are face-to-face and use a treat to place her into the lying position. Say "Down" while lowering a treat toward the ground.

8. Walk away from your dog and continue to state "Stay." Maintain eye contact with your dog to assure him he is doing the right thing.

9. Praise your dog and return to her. Reward her for following your commands.

Tips & Warnings

• If your Labrador attempts to stand or crawl during your "Down Stay" training, return to him and place him back into the "Down" position to begin the training again.
• Patience is important during the "Down Stay" training. While the "Sit Stay" can come easily, the down stay may take continued commitment on your part, as well as your Labrador's.
• As with the "Sit Stay" tip, continue working with your dog to teach distance by moving further from her each training session.