How to Teach a Dog to Stay and Obey

Stay can be a hard command to teach dogs. It's takes a great deal of practice and patience. Ideally, a stay should mean not to move, where the dog doesn't break his position until you tell him that it's ok to move. With a few simple steps and lots of time, you can achieve a reliable stay with your dog.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Have your dog sit or lay down. You'll want to be right by your dog when you do this and you'll stay close for the beginning stages of teaching a dog to stay.
2. Stand in front of your dog or step to the front from a position beside the dog, hold up your palm and say "stay." Some experts recommend that you stay with the dog in the beginning while some recommend moving just a step away with your right foot. Wait just a second or two and stay close.
3. Return to your dog's side if you stepped away or continue to stand by him. You can give him treats while in the stay command to reinforce that he's doing a good job. When you're ready, give the release command and allow the dog to move out of the position. Toss a treat so that the dog has to move or move away and call the dog to you after you give the release command.
4. Put your dog back into her stay position if she gets up before you tell her to. Stay closer to your dog this time and wait for less time. Treat during the stay. Always end a session on a positive note after she has completed a stay.
5. Practice for short periods of time throughout the week. Gradually increase the time that you have your dog in the stay position and your distance from him.
6. Use the command in a variety of situations and places. Set your dog up for success by starting in areas that are free from distractions and progressing from there. Save the dog park or other highly distracting area until your dog is doing reliable stays elsewhere.