How To

How to Train Your Dog to Stay

By eHow Pets Editor
Rate: (88 Ratings)

Teaching your dog to "stay" involves the same positive reinforcement techniques necessary for all training. Be sure your dog understands a "release" command first so she'll know when it's OK to move from the "stay" position.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy
Instructions

Things You'll Need:

  • Dog Bones
  • Dog Dishes
  • Dog Food
  • Dog Toys
  • Dog Training Aids
  • Dog Treats
  1. Step 1

    Be sure your dog understands a release command, such as "free" or "okay," before teaching this command.

  2. Step 2

    Have your dog sit or lie down in front of you. (See Related eHows "Train Your Dog to Sit" and "Train Your Dog to Lie Down.")

  3. Step 3

    Place your hand, palm open, in front of your dog's nose and give the command "Stay."

  4. Step 4

    Say "Good" at the exact moment your dog exhibits the behavior you want.

  5. Step 5

    Give the release command immediately after (within 1 to 2 seconds), followed by treats and unlimited praise.

  6. Step 6

    Reward your pet even if she only "stayed" for 1 second; and always offer rewards for even slight indications of understanding.

  7. Step 7

    Lengthen the amount of time your pet remains in the stay position very gradually, and slowly move farther away.

  8. Step 8

    Remember to give the release command after every successful "stay" as you increase the length of time your dog must remain in the position.

  9. Step 9

    Avoid going into another room until your dog fully understands the command.

  10. Step 10

    Train in 5-minute sessions.

Tips & Warnings
  • Give the release command for a sit/stay after 1 minute maximum. You may have the dog in a down/stay for longer periods of time.

Comments  

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ecm1980 said

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on 4/26/2009 Great advice.

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on 4/5/2009 This article will come in handy. Thank you! Great article.

Saimon said

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on 7/24/2008 More information and useful files at http://megaupload.name/

soniya said

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on 7/9/2008 ITS REALY GREAT TO KNOW ABOUT THE DOGS TRAINING.
THANKS.

Anonymous

Anonymous said

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on 9/18/2006 Put your dog in a sit position next to you. Pull the leash up gently so there is a little pressure. Hold the pressure and command "stay" and put your hand in front of his nose. Keep the pressure and walk in front of him. Give praise after a couple seconds. Then say "okay" in a happy voice to release him. Gradually increase the time and then the distance. When he knows "stay" in a sit, try it in the lying position and standing. He will know what to do.

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