Build a Stay Around a Favorite Toy

Use this once your dog holds a basic stay and you want to add a moving distraction.

  1. 1Cue your dog into a down-stay on their cot.
  2. 2Pick up the toy, then mark and reward.
  3. 3Place the toy on the ground, then mark and reward.
  4. 4Drop the toy from 6 inches, then 1 foot, then waist height, marking and rewarding each successful stay.
  5. 5Move closer to your dog and repeat the same sequence.
  6. 6Toss the toy gently between your hands, then a few inches, then 1 foot into the air, marking and rewarding each successful stay.
  7. 7Roll the toy slowly from side to side, then past your dog, marking and rewarding each successful stay.
  8. 8Toss the toy behind you, then to the side, and finally past your dog. Give your dog a break and reset after every 5–10 repetitions.

Start simple, then gradually add height, motion, and proximity.

← All skills in this course