Things You'll Need:
- Treats
- Treat jar
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Step 1
Fill a jar with treats and call your dog. Go to the front door (where guests enter). It might be helpful to leash your dog at the door so he doesn't escape.
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Step 2
Put your dog in a "sit, stay" position at the door. Allow enough room for the door to swing open without bumping into your dog. Hold the "sit, stay" for a matter of seconds, then release.
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Step 3
Now ask for another "sit, stay" and gradually open the door. Do not let your dog break the "sit, stay"; just open the door far enough that he remains in the position. Then close the door and release your dog. Practice those steps for several days, even up to a week.
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Step 4
Have a family member or friend help you by going to the front door (outside) and ringing the bell or knocking on the door. Have the treat jar close at hand--even next to the door, if need be. When you approach the door with your dog, put her in the "sit, stay" position. As you open the door, let your dog see the visitor. Keep your dog in the "sit, stay"; as long as she is complying, you can let the visitor in. Release the dog and have the visitor ask your dog to sit; they can then give her a treat.
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Step 5
Repeat these activities for three weeks. As the the conditioning process comes to a close, decide on a refresher routine for your dog. In other words, determine how often you plan to practice. You can do it once or twice a week. However, if you do not have guests over often, you might want to practice a few times a week using different "guests."
