How to teach your dog to whoa

Being able to halt your dog (using a command such as "Whoa!") is an important skill to have, particularly if you live near a high-traffic road or in an area where a lot of dogs run around. If you let your dog play off leash, she must be capable of responding to your commands.

Instructions

1. Decide on a stop word and a release word. "Whoa," "stop" and "halt" are all good stop words. "Release," "go" and "okay" are common release words.

2. Practice on a walk with your dog. Say "Whoa" and immediately stop. When your dog stops fidgeting and stands still, pet him and praise him. Then say your release word and start walking.

3. Practice several times every time you take a walk, each time praising your dog for following directions.

4. Try out a longer leash. Take your dog somewhere where she can run around and practice stopping her. If she fails to follow directions, rein in the leash and repeat the command. Praise her when she follows the command.

5. For the next step, you can use either your yard or an off-leash park. Practice stopping and releasing your dog without any leash. By now, your dog should pretty much have it.

Tips & Warnings

• Feel free to encourage your dog with treats as well as praise. Just don't give him too many unhealthy snacks.

• Always use the same commands. Switching them around will confuse the dog.