How to Train Your Beagle to Stay

Begin training your beagle to stay only when he has mastered the sit command. The stay command is basic and even beagles, considered stubborn and slow, learn it successfully when you teach it in an organized format. All you need to train your beagle to stay is a positive approach, a small handful of your dog's favorite dry treats and the following easy steps.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Pick a quiet setting, indoors or outdoors, for the training. Try to eliminate any distracting objects or noises.

2. Attach the dog's leash to her collar and hold the leash loosely. Stand to the dog's right.

3. Command the dog to "sit." Praise him when he does.

4. Move the palm of your left hand down and back. Stop when it reaches a point in front of the dog's nose. Say, "stay" and immediately praise the dog even if she remains seated for only two or three seconds.

5. Tug gently on the dog's leash if he does not stay automatically. Repeat steps 3 and 4 several times.

6. Progress to moving away from the seated dog once she realizes that "stay" means to remain sitting. Move a short distance away very slowly while maintaining constant eye contact with the dog. Repeat the "stay" command in a steady, low voice while moving away.

7. Praise the dog if he remains seated at each step you take. Offer the treats immediately at first and then after you have taken several steps. Complete the "stay" training by praising the dog and giving treats only after the dog sits and stays for five minutes.