How to Train a Dog to Stay in the Yard

Training your dog to stay in the yard without a leash can be very rewarding. You can spend time with your pet outdoors without worrying that she will run after other animals or people or leave the yard. Older dogs can be trained to stay in the yard just as well as younger dogs. It may take time and effort, but in the end, it will be well worth it.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Teach your dog basic commands such as "sit" and "stay." Your dog must understand these commands before you can teach him to stay in the yard.

2. Allow your dog to come outside in the yard on a leash. Slowly walk around the boundaries of the yard. If your dog tries to leave the yard, pull firmly on the leash. Do not pull backwards; always pull to the right or left. Give her a treat whenever she does not leave the yard. Do this every day for two to four weeks, or until she stops trying to leave the yard altogether.

3. Take your dog outside as you usually do, but without a leash. Walk him around the boundaries of the yard, just as you did while his leash was on. Reward him for good behavior by giving him a treat. If he tries to or does leave the yard, bring him inside and try again later or the next day. Continue doing this for another two to four weeks.

4. Bring your dog outside after you have taught her where the boundaries in the yard are. Do not walk with her this time. Let her explore the yard on her own. If it seems like she wants to leave the yard, say "No!" in a firm voice. If she leaves the yard, bring her inside. If she does not leave the yard, reward her.

5. Continue practicing with your dog until he finally realizes that he is not allowed to leave the yard. If he begins trying to leave the yard more often, start over with step 1.

Tips & Warnings

• Consider an invisible fence for dogs, which eliminates the need to train your dog to stay in the yard.

References

• Train a Dog to Stay in an Unfenced Yard