Your daily dose of doggy goodness!
Every day, we celebrate our shared love of dogs and hopefully brighten your day. Enjoy!
Dog of the Day: Nunu!
Meme of the day: We need dog-ductions!
The Art of Stay – Teaching Pups an Important Command
Teaching your dog to stay is one of the most valuable skills you can impart and it’s easier than you might think with a little time, consistency, and a positive attitude. Whether you want your pup to wait politely at the door, stay calm during dinner, or remain in place during an emergency, the “stay” command can be a lifesaver—literally.
Start with the Basics
First, set yourself and your dog up for success by picking a quiet environment with minimal distractions. Then, have a pocketful of treats ready—something your dog loves but doesn’t get often. High-value treats, like small pieces of chicken or cheese, work wonders.
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Sit First: Begin by asking your dog to sit. This gives them a solid starting position and helps them focus.
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Introduce the Command: Once your dog is sitting, hold your hand out, palm facing them, and say “stay” in a calm, clear voice.
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Take a Step Back: Take just one step back and wait a second or two. If your dog stays put, immediately reward them with a treat and praise. If they move, simply reset by guiding them back into a sit and trying again.
Build Duration and Distance
As your dog begins to understand what “stay” means, gradually increase the time and distance. Take two steps back, then three. Wait five seconds, then ten. Always return to your dog before giving the reward. This helps reinforce the idea that staying put leads to good things.
Introduce Distractions
Once your dog consistently stays in a quiet environment, add some gentle distractions. Clap your hands softly, take a little jog in place, or have a family member walk by. Reward your dog generously each time they stay.
Practice and Patience
Dogs thrive on consistency, so practice in short bursts of 5-10 minutes a few times a day. End each session on a positive note, even if it means making things a bit easier so your pup can succeed and feel proud.
Troubleshooting Tips
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If your dog breaks the stay, don’t scold them. Calmly reset and try again.
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Avoid using an excited voice when giving the “stay” command — you want calm energy.
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Use a release word like “okay!” or “free!” so your dog knows when it’s time to move again.
Celebrate Success, Especially the Little Ones
Every dog learns at their own pace, so celebrate the small victories. With time, patience, and lots of treats and praise, your furry friend will soon master the art of staying put. And remember: the journey you take teaching them is just as rewarding as the result.
Happy training!
Family Photo of the Day: Little Fuss!
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Sources:
Dog of the day: IG omy_nunu
Meme of the day: IG winstontheminiaturedood