Working on the stay command with your dogs for longer periods of time doesn’t always have to be in their bed or place.  Once your dog has learned how to stay for a long amount of time in their bed indoors, it’s time to take it to the next level – Stay with Distractions.

Take them outdoors and just tell them to stay.  They can sit or lie down; it’s their choice so long as they stay in that spot.  The best way to increase time is by using your stopwatch instead of a timer.  Using a stopwatch shows how long they can stay in one place.  Don’t forget to give them a release command (e.g., OK) and allow them to stretch their legs or explore what they wanted to get up and sniff.  Also, don’t forget to praise them when they’ve reached a PR!

Working on staying for longer periods outdoors, with the leaves falling, the wind blowing, the kids walking home from school, and the cars passing by, will help them stay longer in their bed when family is over for Thanksgiving and they need to relax around so many people.

Need more help?  A+ Dog Training is here for all dog-related goals.