Stay Proofing

• Prerequisites

  • Sit
  • Stay

• Supplies You Need

  • Leash
  • Rewards
  • Assistant
  • Another Dog

• Training Time

  • Read Article

• Instructor

  

  Suzy

  » Read Bio

• 
• 

When you “proof” the stay, you are teaching your dog to stay under distracting situations. This teaches your dog to stay no matter the situation, and keeps your dog safe in dangerous situations.

Process

Proofing with Treats or Toys

Start with your dog on a leash. Ask your dog to sit and issue the stay command.

Keep the leash taut and step back two feet.

Place a small treat or toy on the ground and re-issue the command stay.

After a few seconds, if your dog remains in position, pick up the treat/toy and reward the dog.

Slowly increase the distraction by increasing the quantity and value of treat/toy (i.e. kibble to steak).

Proofing with Another Dog

Start with your dog on leash. Ask your dog to sit and issue the stay command.

Have your training partner walk-by at approx. 15 feet of distance with a friendly dog on leash.

Re-issue the stay command as your partner walks by.

Reward when your dog remains in position.

Slowly increase the challenge by having your partner walk closer to you and your dog.

Proofing with Human Distractions:

Start with your dog on a leash. Ask your dog to sit and stay.

Keep the leash taut and step back two feet.

Have your training partner walk by making distracting noises (here puppy, puppy) and offering treats.

Reward when your dog remains in position.

Slowly increase the challenge by increasing distance and upping the distraction.

Tips

• Once your dog stays in a familiar environment (your home or backyard), begin trying this in unfamiliar environments such as the park.
• Work with your dog by increasing the distance or moving out of site for a few seconds at a time.
• If your dog “breaks the stay” (moves), place them back in position, re-issue the stay command, and try decrease the difficulty of the “proof.”

Related Lessons

Release Word – We show you how to communicate with your dog by teaching them a word that releases them from a stay or any trick.

Stay at the Door – We show you basic door manners that prevent your dog from busting through the door of the house or car.

Stay in the Car – Tips on how to teach your dog to stay in the car when you open the door or hatch.