Master the ‘Stay’ Command for Beginners

Teaching your dog the ‘stay’ command is an essential part of obedience training that promotes safety and control in many situations. This guide will walk you through a step by step approach to teaching your dog to stay using positive reinforcement.​

Summary:

• Teaching the ‘stay’ command to dogs using positive reinforcement.​

• Includes prep steps, training process and tips.​

• Consistency, patience and gradual progression.​

Why ‘Stay’ is Important

The ‘stay’ command is key to your dog’s safety and good behaviour. It’s especially useful in situations like:​

• Avoiding Danger: Keep your dog from running into traffic or approaching hazardous areas.​New York Post

• Managing Excitement: Help your dog calm down when guests arrive or during meal times.​

• Impulse Control: Help your dog stay still when there are distractions.​

Prep for Training

Before you start training make sure you have:

• Quiet Space: Begin in a distraction free area so your dog can focus.​

• Training Treats: Use small high value treats.​

• Patience and Consistency: Be positive and prepared for slow progress.​

Step by Step Training

1. Command Your Dog to Sit:

   • Start by having your dog sit as ‘stay’ is easier to teach from a sitting position.​

2. Introduce the ‘Stay’ Command:

   • Stand in front of your dog and hold your hand out, palm facing them, and say “stay” in a firm calm voice.​

3. Take a Step Back:

   • After you say “stay” take one step back.​

4. Watch Your Dog:

   • If your dog stays in place say “yes” or use a clicker and then give them a treat.​

   • If your dog moves calmly go back to the start and repeat the command.​

5. Increase Distance and Time:

   • As your dog gets more comfortable with “stay” increase the number of steps you take back and the time before you reward.​

6. **Add Distractions: * Once your dog is staying with increased distance and time practice with mild distractions to reinforce the command.​

7. Release Command:

   • Teach a release word like “okay” or “free” to signal the end of the ‘stay’ command and tell your dog they can move only when allowed.​

Tips for Success

• Consistency: Use the same verbal cue and hand signal every time.​

• Short Sessions: Keep training sessions short (5-10 minutes) to keep your dog focused.​

• Positive Reinforcement: Always reward the desired behaviour to encourage repeat.​

• No Punishment: Don’t scold your dog for breaking the ‘stay’ just calmly reset and try again.​

Common Issues and Solutions

• Dog Breaks Stay Early: If your dog moves before the release command reduce the distance and time then gradually build up again.​

• Difficulty with Distractions: Start with minimal distractions and gradually add more as your dog gets better.​

• Inconsistent Responses: Make sure all family members use the same commands and training methods to avoid confusion.​

Clicker Training

Clicker training can help the learning process by providing a distinct sound to mark the desired behaviour. To use a clicker:​

1. Charge the Clicker:

   • Click and treat several times to build the association.​

2. Use During Training:

   • Click at the exact moment your dog stays then reward.

This will help with communication and speed up the learning process.​

Check out our 2-in-1 Dog Training Clicker & Whistle here 

Conclusion

Master the ‘stay’ command and you’ll have a valuable skill that will keep your dog safe and obedient. By using positive reinforcement and consistent training methods you can teach your dog to stay and have a happy and harmonious relationship and set the stage for more advanced training.