STAY Parameters: Distance, Distraction, Duration

Teaching your puppy to stay builds focus, impulse control, and trust. Take it step-by-step, keep things upbeat, and celebrate small wins!

🛟 Safety First

During stay practice, your puppy should wear a harness or flat collar with a leash trailing behind them. This allows you to gently step in if needed, without startling them or grabbing their body. We’re not using the leash to hold the stay—just to keep things safe while they learn.

🐾 Getting Started

Step 1: Set Up & Introduce the Cue

• Choose a quiet space with minimal distractions.
• Ask your puppy for a Sit, then immediately say “Yes!” and give a treat.
• Introduce your Stay cue in a cheerful voice, paired with a clear hand signal (flat palm held like a stop sign ✋).
• After just 1–2 seconds of staying in position, say your release word (like “Free!”) and toss a treat or invite them to move.
• Repeat this short stay several times. End the session before your puppy gets wiggly or distracted.

⏳ Level 1: Duration Stays

Building How Long Your Puppy Holds It

• Stay close—in front of your puppy—and give your “Stay” cue.
• Count silently for 2–3 seconds, then say “Yes!” and return to reward.
• Slowly increase to 5, then 10 seconds.