Add Distance to the Stay

Use this once your dog can hold a brief stay and you're ready to add distance.

1Begin with your dog on leash in your chosen stay position. A down is usually easiest at first.
2Mark and reward your dog three times while they remain in position. Then release them and toss a treat to reset.
3Before adding distance, march your feet in place. Mark and reward your dog for holding position, then release.
4Take one step backward and immediately return to your dog. Mark and reward while they remain in position.
5Repeat this three times, then release your dog and reset.
6When your dog is successful, increase to two steps and gradually build to at least three feet. Return immediately after each attempt.
7If your dog gets up, calmly reset and practice again at a shorter distance.

Build distance like a rubber band: move away briefly and come right back to reward.