The "STAY" command from a distance
Start at a distance of one or two meters (1-2 yards). Let the dog move freely, and surprise him with the "STAY" command. If the dog stops dead in his tracks, congratulate him immediately. If he doesn't stop, use the VW "HEY!". Repeat the commando If he doesn't respond alter having articulated five consecutive commands, give him the short citronella spray. Then, give him the command "COME"; if he comes to you, congratulate him with an even tone of voice. Give him the "STAY" command once more; if he obeys, give him the SR "SOUND + GOOD!", and do the exercise again later. If the dog doesn't "STAY", go back to the previous exercise, and postpone the "STAY" from a distance to a later time. Regular practice will allow the dog to execute the command perfectly
The “STAY” and “COME” commands: When using these commands consecutively, you are reinforcing the impact of this sequence. They are used as follows:
- Give the commands "SIT" and "STAY".
- Take a few steps and be patient.
- Tell your dog to come to you by using "COME".
- It the dog executes this sequence to your satisfaction, congratulate and reward him.
If you play with your dog, calm him down by telling him "DOWN / STAY". He must remain this way for three seconds before he can continue playing. Then, give him the release cue "OK.". After a few minutes of play, tell him to lie down for tour seconds, then five, and so on. With this technique, you can calm your dog at any time.
To have better control over your dog when you approach exists, avoid exciting the dog beforehand. We recommend a "SIT / STAY" sequence 2 meters (yards) from the door, followed by feigning an exit by touching the doorknob without opening it. Come back to your dog. Congratulate him (SR "SOUND + GOOD!") it he shows no sign of excitement.
Anot her conditioning can be used simultaneously. Approach the door, open it just enough to slam it to make some noise. As soon as it closes, go back 2-3 meters (yards) and wait for the dog to follow. This procedure must be repeated many times and combined with the command "COME". Continue the conditioning until the dog stays put, even with the door open. After the dog succeeds, congratulate him with the SR "SOUND + GOOD'" and reward him before resuming the exercise.
“PLACE” Command: When the dog shows that he can stay in place, you can now assign him specific areas within the house. Here is how one goes about assigning a .PLACE" to a dog:
- Take an old sleeping bag or blanket, and put it at a pre-determined spot for the "place". The territory of the "place" must be visually easy to identify.
- Give the command "PLACE", and bring your dog on the sleeping bag. Tell the dog "DOWN" by using only the down gesture. When the dog lies down, congratulate him by giving him the SR "SOUND + GOOD'". Repeat the exercise frequently, until he goes to his place himself when you give him the command to do so.
- Gradually increase the time the dog must "STAY" before giving him the release cue "OK”.
If you insist that the dog never leave his place before having heard the release cue, the command "PLACE" will most certainly impress your guests. Your home can easily count many "places", each situated in a strategic place.


