Teaching your dog to wait at doorways
Teaching your dog to wait at doorways is an essential skill for a well-behaved pup. It helps prevent them from bolting out or rushing in when you open the door. Here are some simple steps to teach your furry friend this valuable command.
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Start with a leash: Attach a leash to your dog’s collar before you begin the training. This will give you control and make it easier to guide them.
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Choose a designated spot: Pick a spot a few feet away from the doorway where you want your dog to wait. This can be a rug or a specific area on the floor.
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Use a cue word: Decide on a cue word or phrase that you’ll use consistently to command your dog to wait. Examples could be “wait,” “stay,” or “hold on.”
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Approach the door: Walk towards the closed door with your dog on the leash. Stop a few feet away from the door and face your dog.
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Issue the command: Say the cue word firmly and clearly. For example, “Wait.” Make sure to use a tone that conveys authority.
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Wait for a response: Your dog might initially try to move towards the door. If they do, gently pull back on the leash and reinforce the command by saying “No” or repeating the cue word.
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Reward compliance: Once your dog stops moving and waits in the designated spot, praise them with an enthusiastic “Good dog!” or use a clicker if you’ve been using clicker training.
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Open the door gradually: While your dog is waiting, slowly open the door. If your dog tries to move towards the door, close it immediately and repeat the previous steps.
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Release command: After a few seconds of waiting, give your dog the release command, such as “Okay” or “Go ahead.” This lets them know they can now move through the doorway.
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Practice and reinforce: Repeat this training exercise multiple times, gradually increasing the duration of the wait before giving the release command. Practice in different doorways to generalize the behavior.
Remember, consistency is key when training your dog. Practice this exercise regularly and be patient with your furry companion. With time and practice, your dog will learn to wait patiently at doorways, making outings and homecomings much more manageable.
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