Teaching your dog to stay is a continuation of the SIT command so make sure your dog is very consistent with sitting on command. Once your dog is sitting, hold your hand in front of his face. Say his name followed by the STAY command as your step back a few steps backwards. Keep your hand up for a few seconds and if he stays put, give your dog a treat. Increase both the distance you walk away from your dog and the length of time he has to stay. As the distance increases, you will need to call your dog to you to get the treat and ample praise. If your dog breaks the command and comes to you too soon, simply lead him back to the original place and start over with a shorter distance or a shorter release time. Learn more from your London, ON veterinary clinic.