How do I Train my Dog to Stay

When teaching your dog to lie down and to stay in that position for extended periods of time, using the Down and Stay commands. It is very important for the you the dog owner/trainer to make sure that the surface you are asking him to lie on is comfortable and suitable for your dog. Dogs with short hair for example have a difficult time with cold surfaces like tile or linoleum. Here are the steps to follow if you want to learn How do I Train my Dog to Stay:

• Begin with your dog in the Sit position and using a food lure bring his nose about halfway to the ground. If he follows the treat, click and reward.

• Slowly move your hand (and treat) closer to the floor. Once he gets the idea do away with the food lure. If later on he gets stuck you can always go back to the lure for a few repetitions.

• After getting the dog's head to the floor trying holding the lure under his chest and waiting. Most dogs will eventually drop to the ground at this point. When he does so, click and reward.

• You then want to repeat this action at least six times, clicking every time your dog follows through.

• Now go through the same motions as before but without the lure in your hand.

• If your dog can't complete the action twice in a row go back to using the treat for another six repetitions. Then try again without the treat.

• You now want to start practicing this behavior in other environments and with distractions. Don't rush your dog if he is having a problem go back to using the lure for a few reps before attempting again with out it.

Here are some tips that you will find handy if your dog gets stuck in the Sit position.

• Always practice away from distractions at first. Also use a surface, which will not cause your dog to feel uncomfortable or edgy.

• Practice with treats that are extra special for your dog.

• To give your dog the idea of what you are after place your hand with the lure under a low table or even your outstretched leg. He will then have to get closer to the floor to get to it.

• The idea of clicker training is to teach your dog to think so if you start to push him or pull him into a certain position. You are in fact teaching him not to think but rather to let you do the work.